The Government has launched an independent review of the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to ensure it remains committed to helping Britain’s motorists.
The DVSA will be assessed on the four pillars set out by Cabinet Office namely efficiency, efficacy, accountability and governance.
Given the rise of new vehicle technologies in recent years, the Government has made it a priority to ensure the DVSA keeps pace.
The review will also ensure the DVSA continues to evolve with technology, most notably new electric vehicles and the high-tech features they contain.
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The DVSA review is expected to conclude in the summer
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Roads Minister Guy Opperman commented on the work done by the DVSA and how a review could identify areas where it excels and needs to improve.
He added: “The DVSA plays a crucial role in making sure road users get around safely and with confidence, helping learners pass their driving tests and giving drivers peace of mind by ensuring MOTs are carried out to exceptional standards.
“This review will help us understand how the DVSA can continue to improve, evolving alongside vehicle technology and keeping Britain moving safely and sustainably.”
Another aim of the review is to assess how the DVSA works with stakeholders and the Government to ensure Britain’s roads remain safe.
Sakira Patel will be the external, independent Lead Reviewer, with the review expected to be completed by the summer.
Nick Bitel, Non-Executive Chair of the DVSA, said the review would help the Government agency adapt to a changing landscape and help drivers with their motoring needs.
He continued, saying: “Our vision to 2030 sets out our aim to keep Britain moving, safely and sustainably.
“Supported by our professional and dedicated colleagues, we’re taking a service-led, customer-focused approach to the way we work, modernising and transforming our services to make them even better and more efficient, helping meet the needs of our customers and make road transport safer, greener and healthier.
“These regular, independent reviews of public sector bodies are always helpful, and we value the opportunity to highlight our achievements and build on them, as we work towards achieving our vision for the future.”
The DVSA has been active in putting forward new legislation to streamline different processes, including the MOT test.
It recently announced an update following the major consultation that took place in early 2023 and decided not to change the date of the first MOT of a vehicle from three years to four years.
Road safety experts were critical of the plans, saying drivers could be more at risk if they don’t get their vehicles checked for an additional year.
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The DVSA issued an update for its MOT test changes last week
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Data from the AA suggests that an annual MOT can potentially save drivers between £200 and £400 each year by identifying issues with the car before they turn into larger problems with expensive repair costs.
