Guide 17. How to Prepare for a DVSA Roadside Check

What Happens at a Roadside Inspection and What Paperwork Drivers Should Carry

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) conducts roadside checks across the UK to ensure that operators and drivers comply with road safety and vehicle standards regulations. These inspections are an essential part of enforcement, designed to identify unsafe vehicles, unlicensed operators, and non-compliant drivers.

For operators holding an Operator’s Licence, ensuring your drivers are fully prepared for a DVSA roadside check is crucial. This article outlines what typically happens during a roadside inspection, what documentation drivers must carry, and how best to prepare for these checks.

What Is a DVSA Roadside Check?

A DVSA roadside check is an on-the-spot inspection where enforcement officers stop commercial vehicles—either randomly or based on intelligence—to assess their roadworthiness and compliance with relevant legislation.

Checks can range from a brief document inspection to a full mechanical examination, and may involve other agencies such as the police or HMRC, especially in joint operations.

What to Expect During a Roadside Check

1. Initial Stop and Identity Verification

Once stopped, a DVSA officer will ask the driver for:

• Driver’s licence (including CPC qualification if applicable)

• Operator licence details

• Driver card (for digital tachographs)

• Relevant vehicle documents

2. Documentation Inspection

The officer will examine:

• Tachograph records (digital or analogue)

• Vehicle defect reports (daily walkaround checks)

• MOT certificate (if applicable)

• Insurance certificate (if required to be carried)

• Vehicle registration document (V5C) or operator details

• Goods vehicle plating certificate

3. Vehicle Examination

Depending on the officer’s discretion, the vehicle may undergo:

• Brake and tyre inspection

• Lights and indicators check

• Load security assessment

• Weight check (via mobile weighbridges)

• Emissions testing

4. Driver Checks

DVSA officers may also assess:

• Working time compliance

• Drivers’ hours regulations

• Use of tachograph and potential manipulation

• Evidence of fatigue or impairment

Key Documents Drivers Must Carry

To ensure a smooth roadside check, drivers should always have the following on hand:

Best Practices to Prepare for a Roadside Inspection

1. Conduct Daily Walkaround Checks

Make sure drivers know how to carry out thorough pre-use checks and record any defects properly. These reports should be kept for at least 15 months.

2. Maintain Tachograph Compliance

Ensure drivers know how to operate tachographs correctly, take required breaks, and never exceed driving time limits. Tachograph data should be downloaded and analysed regularly.

3. Train and Brief Drivers

Conduct regular training to remind drivers of the documents they must carry and how to behave during a check. A calm, cooperative attitude can make a significant difference.

4. Ensure Load Security

Improperly secured loads are a common issue during inspections. All drivers should be trained on safe loading and how to inspect and secure their loads properly.

5. Use an Earned Recognition Scheme (Optional)

Operators enrolled in the DVSA Earned Recognition Scheme are less likely to be stopped, as they’re deemed low-risk. If your operation meets the criteria, consider applying.

Consequences of Failing a Roadside Check

Non-compliance can result in:

• Immediate prohibition of the vehicle (if it’s unsafe)

• Fixed penalties for drivers

• Formal warnings or investigation of the operator’s licence

• Points on a driver’s licence or even prosecution

• A poor OCRS (Operator Compliance Risk Score), increasing the likelihood of future inspections

Summary

Preparation is key when it comes to DVSA roadside checks. By ensuring that drivers are well-informed, vehicles are properly maintained, and paperwork is always up to date and accessible, operators can avoid unnecessary penalties and demonstrate their commitment to safety and compliance.

Staying proactive not only keeps your fleet running smoothly—it also protects your Operator’s Licence and your business reputation.