The big idea
The operator is responsible for keeping vehicles roadworthy. DVSA expects a system, not just good intentions.
The main parts of the system
- Driver daily checks and defect reporting. Drivers check the vehicle before use and report defects in a way that is recorded.
- Planned preventive maintenance inspections. Regular inspections by competent people, at intervals suited to the vehicle and its work.
- Brake testing. Brake performance tested and recorded at suitable intervals.
- Defect rectification. Defects fixed by competent people and the fix recorded.
- Records. Kept for a set period, usually quoted as at least 15 months in the guide.
- Annual test preparation. Vehicles and trailers presented clean and ready.
Why drivers are central
Drivers see the vehicle every day. The guide expects a clear route for them to report defects and to be told what happened next. Nobody should drive a vehicle with a dangerous defect.
Where Kovi helps
Kovi covers the first and fourth items well: the daily check record, defect reports with photos and the fix history. Read our PMI vs daily check guide for how the daily check sits with workshop inspections.
Always read the current DVSA guide itself. This page is a summary and may be out of date.
General information for Great Britain, not legal advice. Rules change, so check GOV.UK and DVSA for the latest. Northern Ireland has its own rules.
Related
Operator licence guideWho needs an O-licence, the three types, what operators promise to do on vehicle maintenance and daily checks, and where to apply.PMI vs daily walkaround checkPlanned preventive maintenance inspections and daily driver checks do different jobs. Here is how they fit together for UK operators.How long to keep check recordsOperators are expected to keep driver check and defect records for a set period. What DVSA guidance says, what to keep and how to find it later.