Speedometer check and Automated Driving Systems changes – from the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency

Updates to speedometer check changes and Automated Driving Systems

Speedometers

DVSA is changing how speedometers are assessed on IVA tests for cars (M1) and vans (N1).

IVA applicants for these vehicles will be asked to declare that speedometers have been installed or converted to read in miles per hour (mph) from kilometres per hour (kph). This is to ensure they comply with section 17 of the IVA inspection manual.

Applicants can self-declare that their vehicles comply with these standards using the updated IVA application form. Evidence may be required when the test is taken.

This will apply to tests from today (Wednesday 14 May 2025). If you have already completed an application form or your application is being processed on this date, speedometer checks will still apply.

This change does not apply to:

  • lorries (N2/3)
  • busses (M2/3)
  • vehicles fitted with speedometers capable of reading in mph or mph & kph (dual marked) from new
  • vehicles fitted with a driver function which allows switching to mph

Automated Driving Systems

DVSA has added additional questions to the IVA application forms to ask about automated or self-driving features fitted to vehicles.

You will need to tell us if the vehicle retains conventional driving controls and features or is fitted with drive by wire systems.

Further information on what features are included can be obtained from the Agency.

USE OF BUS STOPS

We have received the following from TfL

Hi All,

I have had a number of comments fairly recently from multiple stakeholders about coaches parking/waiting on bus stops and blocking bus services. Most recently outside the Park Lane Hilton (presumably before/after an event).

Please can you remind members the broad rules on stops:

Yellow routes

  • Set down and pick up are permitted on double and single yellow lines – however, activity must be taking place. Some London boroughs allow an observation time – however, this does not apply when loading restrictions are in force
  • Check signs before using bus stops to pick up and set down as most are restricted to ‘local’ or ‘LT/TfL’ buses. Parking and waiting is not permitted at any time

Red routes

  • Double red lines: no stopping at any time
  • Single red lines: no stopping during restricted hours
  • Vehicles registered as a bus can use red route bus stops, but must not park or wait, and activity must be taking place
  • Some Red Route bus stops in busy areas now restricted to ‘local’ buses.

Robert Hall | Coach Network Advisor

Victoria Coach Station | Transport for London

 

School Groups Travelling Through The Port of Dover

The Port of Dover is launching a new pilot to simplify and speed up border checks for school groups travelling from the UK to France – and it starts 3 April 2025. Under the scheme, school groups that submit passenger information to their ferry operator at least 72 hours in advance could benefit from faster processing at the French border in Dover. To qualify, schools will need to provide proof of status – such as a screenshot from their national school database registration.  We encourage members to engage and share their experiences as this rolls out.

Click here to read more: Port Of Dover Launches UK-France School Trips Border Processing Pilot To Streamline Travel

Announcement from Parksafe – Road Skills online – Bridge strikes

RSO Partnership Press Release

I hope your week is going well!

I’m pleased to share our latest press release announcing an exciting new partnership with Road Skills Online, aimed at addressing the growing issue of bridge strikes.

Individually, both training and technology are proven tools in preventing these costly and dangerous incidents. Together, they become even more powerful—reinforcing and supporting one another. For example, if a driver forgets key elements of their training, our Low Bridge Detection System (LBDS) can serve as a timely reminder. Conversely, if a driver is tempted to ignore an LBDS warning, their prior training may prompt them to take it seriously.

We’d greatly appreciate it if you could consider featuring this announcement in your upcoming print or digital content. Your support in sharing this exciting development would be invaluable to us.

Kind regards

Louise Smith

Design and Marketing Manager

Procedures for Coaches at the Port of Dover – May Half Term

Dear Member,

Please see the attached procedure for coaches travelling through the Port of Dover during the May half-term.

On Friday, 23rd May, the Cruise Terminal will be in use for coach operations from 05:00 to 23:59 and all coaches scheduled to depart during this time must proceed here first before travelling to the Ferry Terminal.

Upon arrival at the Cruise Terminal, you will receive a number as part of the sequencing process and any coach arriving at the Ferry Terminal without their number will be redirected.

For further information, please visit Port Of Dover | Official Website Of The Dover Harbour Board