This MOT stats data set, sourced from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), covers testing for commercial vehicles such as lorries, buses, and trailers in the UK. It’s important to note that this data is not classified as an “official statistic” and, therefore, does not undergo the same level of scrutiny as other government statistics.

Overview of Annual Tests for Lorries, Buses, and Trailers

The annual tests for commercial vehicles are similar to the MOT tests that cars undergo each year. The primary goal is to ensure these vehicles are roadworthy and comply with safety standards.

Key Data from Annual Tests (2024 to 2024 – Quarter 4: January to March)

Top 10 Reasons for Vehicle Fails

Vehicles may fail their tests for multiple reasons, and here are the most common causes of failure during inspections:

Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) Failures

Public Service Vehicle (PSV) Failures

Vehicle Initial Test Fail Rate by Age

The failure rate for vehicles tends to increase with age. Here’s a breakdown of failure rates based on vehicle age:

Vehicle Initial Test Fail Rate by Fleet Size

Failure rates are also influenced by the size of a fleet:

Specialist Tests

In addition to the annual test, certain vehicles may require specialised inspections. Here are some of the key schemes:

Certificate of Initial Fitness (COIF)

This certificate is necessary for vehicles with more than 8 passenger seats used for profit. These vehicles may require additional tests if:

They are not registered in the UK but were built before the type approval scheme was introduced.
They are registered in the UK but lack type approval as a passenger vehicle with more than 8 seats.

Number of COIF Inspections (2023 to 2024 – Quarter 4

• • PSV Inspections: 167

• • Retests: 18

• • Total Inspections: 185

ADR Test for Vehicles Carrying Dangerous Goods
The ADR test is a specialist inspection for vehicles transporting hazardous goods by road.

Number of ADR Applications (2023 to 2024)

• • Applications for Certificates: 17,911

• • Retests: 301

• • Total Applications: 18,212

ATP Scheme for Perishable Foodstuffs

The ATP (Agreement on the International Carriage of Perishable Foodstuffs) scheme is for vehicles that carry perishable foodstuffs internationally, ensuring they comply with international refrigeration standards.

Number of ATP Inspections (2022 to 2023)

• • Design Types Approved: 4

• • CRT Issued Certificates: 1,621

• • Replacement Certificates: 0