Agricultural tractors and roadworthiness testing: What you need to know

The National Association of Agricultural Contractor’s (NAAC) has welcomed an announcement from the Department for Transport (DfT) that agricultural tractors will not be required to undertake roadworthiness testing.

Announced as part of a Government response introducing roadworthiness testing for fast tractors used for commercial haulage, it is made clear that, despite some opposition, mandatory vehicle testing will not be introduced for agricultural tractors as it is considered road use is limited compared to other vehicles.

Jesse Norman MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Roads, Local Transport and Devolution says; “Roadworthiness testing will not be required for tractors used exclusively for agriculture, as their use on the road is limited compared with other vehicles.”

Commenting on operator responsibility, Jill Hewitt, NAAC technical consultant says; “It is important that contractors and farmers use the vehicles ‘solely’ for agricultural use and do not step into commercial haulage, without abiding by necessary transport regulations.

“It is also vital, to protect the safety of road users, that all tractors are safe on the roads and the industry must continue to be rigorous in daily maintenance checks and regular servicing.”