Latest DVSA Announcement signals changes to Jacking Beam specifications for Class 4 MOT Centres from April 1st 2026.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has today released Special Notice 04-25, confirming that new requirements will be introduced for jacking equipment in Class 4 MOT test bays from 1 April 2026.
What’s Changing?
From 1st April 2026, any MOT centres applying to open a new site or make changes to an existing site will need to ensure their jacking equipment meets the following updated specifications:
- Minimum safe working load (SWL): 2 tonnes
- Distance of at least 1,700mm between the centre of the lifting pads
These updates are designed to ensure MOT stations can safely accommodate newer, heavier vehicles, including hybrids and EVs, which are increasingly common on UK roads.
Who Do the Changes Affect?
The new requirements apply to MOT centres that, from April 2026 onwards, are:
- Opening a new centre
- Changing ownership (where the site is transferred to a different authorised examiner (AE) with a different AE number)
- Restarting MOT testing after a period of no testing (regardless of how long)
- Adding another test lane
- Voluntarily upgrading or replacing damaged jacking equipment
The changes will not affect MOT centres that are: only changing their existing AE (keeping the same AE number), submitting their application to the DVSA prior to 1st April 2026, or have approved Class 4 test bays and are not making any changes.
Why the Change?
The DVSA confirmed that the update is necessary because the current jacking specifications cannot always accommodate the increased weight and design of electric and hybrid vehicles. By raising the minimum SWL and pad spacing, the updated requirements will ensure MOT testing remains safe and effective for all vehicle types.
What do MOT Stations Need to Do?
If you already have approved Class 4 test bays and are not making any changes, you don’t need to take action. However, if you plan to upgrade, expand, or change ownership after 1st April 2026, you must ensure your jacking equipment complies with these new specifications.
Stay Ahead with Boston
At Boston, we stay ahead of regulatory changes so you don’t have to. Our expert MOT advice and range of DVSA-compliant jacking beams are designed to future-proof your workshop, ensuring you’re ready for heavier vehicles and specification updates.
Talk to our team today about upgrading your MOT bay or selecting the right jacking beam for your centre. You can also visit our jacking beam product pages for complete specifications.
Call us now on 01708 525585 or visit our Contact Page to send us an enquiry.