What happens on the day of the test?
When you make an appointment you will be given an appointment letter which will indicate the lane number at which must park and wait until the examiner calls you into the test hall. Leave yourself plenty of time to get to the test centre, consider traffic congestion etc.
Do I have to bring the car myself?
No, anyone can present the vehicle for the test on the registered keeper's behalf – the registered keeper does not have to attend in person.
What happens at the test centre?
When you arrive at the test centre drive to the test hall and park in the lane indicated on your appointment letter or given by the call centre (if you made your appointment by phone).
Ensure that you keep your engine running at normal running temperature (as indicated by your temperature gauge inside your vehicle). It is important to do this as not doing so may result in your vehicle failing the emission test.
If your vehicle is found to be emitting substantial quantities of avoidable smoke the statutory inspection will not take place.
What if I am late for my appointment?
We strongly recommend that you arrive at least 10 minutes before your appointment time. If you arrive late the test will not take place and you may lose your fee and you will have to make another appointment.
Will I be able to sit in the vehicle during the test?
When you arrive at the test hall you will be asked by the examiner to drive your vehicle into the test hall. You must be able to get out of the vehicle for some stages of the test. If this will cause a problem, for example, if you have a disability please contact the DVA test centre office before you arrive for advice.
Will passengers be allowed to sit in the vehicle during the test?
No, for health and safety reasons passengers or pets will not be permitted in the test hall. They may wait in the reception area of the DVA test centre until the vehicle is tested. There are toilet facilities available in the reception area.
Will I have to drive over a pit?
No, this is no longer a part of the test if you are presenting a passenger car, motorcycle or light goods vehicle. It does however remain part of the test for heavy goods vehicles and buses.
What happens after the test?
Depending whether or not your vehicle passes or fails the test you can find out what happens next at the following link
What happens if my vehicle is damaged during the test?
If your vehicle is damaged during the test, this should be reported as soon as possible to the Centre Manager who will inspect the damage. If the vehicle has already left the premises the Centre Manager will arrange a time for you to return with the vehicle for inspection. You will be given a claim form which you should then submit to the Centre Manager along with three quotes showing the cost of repairing the damage.
How do I make a complaint?
DVA is committed to providing a high standard of service to its customers and wish to ensure that making a complaint is as easy as possible. A written reply will be issued within 10 working days of a complaint having been received, however, if for some reason that is not possible, you will be advised of the reason for the delay;
Your complaints help to identify areas where repeated problems are occurring and take steps to improve the service.
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