Buses/Coaches/Large Passenger Carrying Vehicles (LPCVs)

A bus/coach/LPCV is due to be tested on the first anniversary of registration and then every year afterwards if the vehicle is one year old or more. This is subject to it not being used for hire or reward and being built to carry more than 8 passengers in addition to the driver.

An application for buses/coaches and LPCV’s can only be made by completing an application form and posting it to a Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) test centre or by calling in person to any DVA test centre.

You should make an application at least six weeks before a certificate is due.

DVA also has a primary responsibility for the enforcement of relevant legislation pertaining to the use of Buses and Coaches used on Northern Irelands roads.

Enforcement Officers have powers to stop and inspect these vehicles at any time even whilst carrying passengers. This is to ensure that vehicles are maintained in a suitable roadworthy condition and that drivers are appropriately licensed.

If your vehicle is stopped you may be delayed for a short period whilst a number of checks are completed. These may include checks with regard to:

• Roadworthiness
• Road Service Licence
• Public Service Vehicle Licence
• Insurance Certificate
• Driving Licence
• Tachograph and drivers hours requirements (where fitted / required)
• Seatbelt operation and use (where fitted / required)

Further information about tachographs and drivers hours can be found at DVA website .