About MOT connected equipment
Some types of equipment can connect directly to the service you use to record MOT test results. This means that test results can be automatically transferred to service without the need for manual data entry.
From 1 May 2021, exhaust gas analysers and diesel smoke meters will be able to connect directly to the MOT testing service.
Who the rules apply to
From 1 May 2021, any MOT centres that test class 4,5 and 7 vehicles, must have this connected equipment installed if they are:
- opening a new MOT centre
- reopening a closed MOT centre (this applies regardless of how long it’s been closed)
- changing ownership (where the MOT centre moves from one authorised examiner (AE) to another)
- replacing emissions testing equipment
Who the rules do not apply to
The rules on this type of connected equipment do not apply if:
- you're making a change to an existing AE (for example, where you add a new partner and keep the same AE number)
- your application to open, run or change an MOT centre was received by DVSA before 1 May 2021 – you can use any emissions equipment that was shown in the list of approved equipment when you applied
- your MOT centre only tests class 1,2 and 3 vehicles
How you connect equipment
You need a software code (called a ‘key’) to connect equipment to the MOT testing service. Read the guidance on how to connect equipment including how to get a key and what to do with it
- After the equipment is installed
Connected equipment only sends results for live MOT tests – it does not have a trial mode. You and the tester need to check that the results have been sent through on the first test after the equipment is installed.
Contact the equipment supplier immediately if results are not sent through.
AEDMs and site managers should regularly check test logs to ensure connected equipment is sending results through correctly.
- Connecting existing compatible emissions equipment
You may be able to install software on existing emission testing equipment to allow them to connect to the MOT testing service. Check with your supplier to see if your equipment is compatible.
What happens if equipment fails
The rules about equipment failing are not changing. Read section B4, paragraph 4 of the MOT testing guide.
You must stop testing immediately if the emissions testing equipment fails. Only restart the test when the equipment is repaired.
However, if the problem is only with connecting to the MOT testing service, you have 7 calendar days to fix the problem.After this, you must stop testing.
The MOT testing guide will be updated to reflect this.
Other types of connected equipment
DVSA plans to introduce other types of connected equipment following on from successful trials. This includes headlamp beam testers. DVSA will issue a special notice when this equipment is introduced into the test. This should be later in 2021.
