Big changes are coming to how commercial vehicle brakes are checked. As of 1 April 2025, the DVSA is enforcing stricter brake performance requirements as part of regular safety inspections.

🔧 The New Requirements

You must carry out brake performance tests during every safety inspection. Accepted methods include:

- Roller Brake Tester (RBT)

- Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring System (EBPMS)

- Decelerometer with brake temperature readings 

And importantly:

- Four laden brake tests per year are mandatory – unless you’ve carried out a documented risk assessment.

 🧠 Competency is Key

Whether using an RBT, decelerometer, or EBPMS:

- The person interpreting the brake test data must be competent

- They must sign and date the evaluation

- The test result or report must be stored with the vehicle’s safety records

 ✅ Be Proactive

Start now by:

- Reviewing your brake testing setup

- Training your team on the new expectations

- Updating your inspection checklists

This isn’t just best practice – it’s the new minimum standard from April 2025.