14-09-07 VOSA's guidelines for vehicle operators on booking low emissions tests
Before applying for a first Low Emissions or Reduced Pollution Test, vehicle operators have to ensure that their vehicles are referenced on the Low Emissions Certificate (LEC) Eligible Engine or the LEC and RPC (Reduced Pollution Certificate) Approved devices list.
VOSA will inspect and issue either an LEC or RPC for
a. Vehicles with unmodified Euro 1 or 2 engines that may meet the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) emissions standards and are referenced on the Transport for London (TfL) LEC eligible engines list. The list is published on the Tfl website: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/roadusers/lez/vehicles/options/5374.aspx
b. Vehicles that have had particulate abatement equipment fitted or a modification made such that the vehicle then meets the LEZ emissions standards. The LEC and RPC Approved devices list can be found on the TfL website:- http://www.tfl.gov.uk/roadusers/lez/vehicles/options/2551.aspx
Low Emissions Certificates (LEC) are now issued out by all VOSA Test Stations and Designated Premises nationwide. Low emissions tests can be booked via the nearest local VOSA Test Station or the VOSA Enquiry Unit at 0870 60 60 440.
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NOTES TO EDITOR:
The Low Emissions Certificate has been developed by VOSA, TfL and the Department for Transport specifically for the London Low Emission Zone (LEZ), providing an alternative for certifying those vehicles that meet the LEZ emissions standards but are unable to obtain a Reduced Pollution Certificate (RPC). After a LEC or RPC test has been conducted, the test results will be transferred from VOSA to TfL automatically and the data will be updated on TfL's database within 10 days.
The LEZ scheme is being implemented in different phases. Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) over 12 tonnes will be required to meet the Euro III standard for Particulate Matter from February 2008, while from July 2008 buses, coaches and HGVs greater than 3.5 tonnes will also need to comply.
At the time of booking, VOSA will ask for the following details:
• Registration mark of the vehicle if vehicle is registered and number of axles
• The type of test that the operator wishes VOSA to undertake (Low Emissions Certificate or Reduced Pollution Certificate)
• Where the operator would like the inspection carried out
• When the operator would like the test to be undertaken
• What is the eligible engine type, or what necessary modifications have been undertaken
When presenting a vehicle for inspection it is important that it is accompanied by a person who is competent and equipped to tilt the cab or remove engine access panels safely and is able to re-instate according to manufacturers instructions.
At time of inspection the vehicle examiner will want to see the following items:
• engine
• fuel system
• exhaust system
• chassis number
• engine type designation
• type number on the pollution control device if fitted
During core opening hours the test fee is £28. If the check is carried out at the same time as the annual inspection, the charge will be £17. Pre-funded account holders and operators who pay by credit/debit cards are asked to book a LEC or RPC test by calling the VOSA National Helpline on 0870 60 60 440 or contact their local Heavy Goods Vehicle Testing Station. Customers paying with cash will need to visit a VOSA Test Station to book their test.
The status of a vehicle can be checked by contacting the TfL call centre on 0845 607 0009 or by viewing the vehicle compliance checker at www.tfl.gov.uk/lezlondon. Further details on the Low Emissions Certificates and how to book tests with VOSA are available at www.transportoffice.gov.uk.
VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) is responsible for:
• Processing applications for licences to operate lorries and buses and registering bus services
• Operating and administering testing schemes for all vehicles, including the supervision of the
MOT testing scheme
• Enforcing the law on vehicles to ensure that they comply with legal standards and regulations
• Enforcing drivers' hours and licensing requirements
• Supporting Traffic Commissioners to help them make informed decisions on operator
licensing, vocational drivers and bus registration requirements
• Providing training and advice for commercial operators
• Investigating vehicle accidents, defects and recalls.
For media inquiries about VOSA, please contact: Henry Norman on 0117 954 3208 / henry.norman@vosa.gov.uk, or Zita Galambosi on 0117 954 2561 / zita.galambosi@vosa.gov.uk.
Could you please send the published version of any articles about VOSA to press@vosa.gov.uk, VOSA, Berkeley House, Croydon Street, Bristol, BS5 0DA, or fax them to 0117 9543303. Many thanks.
Page last updated: 20/09/2007