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Horsebox Annual Test
As the government agency responsible for vehicle safety and environmental standards, VOSA carries out a test every year on your horsebox to make sure it meets minimum road safety and environmental standards. The test is usually carried out at authorised test stations (see UK Test Stations for a complete list).
How can I prepare for my test?
Having your horsebox properly checked and serviced by a qualified mechanic beforehand will help to make sure it is in a good enough condition to pass the test.
Do I need to let the Tester know if I have altered the vehicle in any way?
If you’ve made changes to the vehicle’s specification such as changing the tyres to a different specification to the original fitting, you need to let us know.
Do I need to bring any paperwork?
Check you have a plating certificate displayed somewhere in the cab and another copy for your records . Bring both to the test.
Will my tachograph be checked? (check here: Horsebox Owners Tachograph Exemption)
If your vehicle is fitted with a tachograph but you only use it as a speedometer, you must make sure that all the seals are intact, and that the tachograph has been initially calibrated and is fitted with both the calibration and K factor plaques. Also if you do not use tachograph charts, you will need to fill out a tachograph exemption form and present it at the time of the test. Check with your local test station, or VOSA enquiry line (0870 6060440) for further information.
Do I need to bring my box loaded?
Make sure your horsebox is loaded when you bring it to the test so the brakes can be checked for maximum efficiency. Use heavy items such as bags of feed or fertilizer or even straw bales, as long as it is not livestock.
What if my vehicle fails the test?
If we identify any fault that could cause danger or damage the environment, we will ask you to have it repaired before we issue the MOT certificate. If the fault is serious, you will need to arrange recovery from the testing station. (breakdown services do not cover plating failures - OHTO will attend but it is chargeable). You can appeal against the decision – for further information refer to Appealing against an MOT Test Decision
Additional Information:
VOSA produce a leaflet to help horsebox owners prepare for their annual test - you can download an Adobe pdf version here: Guide for Horsebox Owners
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THE ORGANISATION OF HORSEBOX & TRAILER OWNERS
Whitehill Farm, Hamstead Marshall, Newbury, Berkshire RG20 0HP
Tel: 01488 657651 Fax: 01488 657652
E-mail: info@horsebox-rescue.co.uk
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