What Can a DVSA Vehicle Examiner Do?
If you run HGVs or PSVs, understanding the powers of DVSA Vehicle Examiners is essential for staying compliant and avoiding enforcement action.
Key Powers of a DVSA Examiner
DVSA Examiners can:
- Stop and inspect vehicles at any time
- Enter operating centres to check vehicles or records
- Detain vehicles during inspections
- Divert vehicles up to 5 miles to an inspection site
- Use roadside check sites to carry out inspections
- Issue prohibition notices or fixed penalties for defects
They may also inspect your maintenance records, assess workshop facilities, and review your inspection procedures.
What Triggers an Inspection?
An inspection may follow a roadside stop, a poor OCRS score, a complaint, or a routine maintenance assessment. Examiners look for evidence of proper safety checks, driver walk-arounds, and up-to-date maintenance records.
If issues are found, you could face:
- An unsatisfactory report
- Traffic Commissioner action
- Fines, prohibitions, or worse
How to Stay Compliant
✅ Keep maintenance records up to date
✅ Train drivers on defect reporting
✅ Schedule regular audits of your systems
✅ Use digital tools to manage compliance
Need help preparing for a DVSA visit?
LDP Transport Consultancy supports operators with compliance reviews, audit readiness, and ongoing advice through the Hauliers Hub.
📧 Contact us at info@hauliershub.co.uk
🌐 Visit www.hauliershub.co.uk
