New versions of the Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) and the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) manuals come into effect in July 2026 and the Commercial Vehicle Information System (CoVIS) has been updated accordingly to reflect these changes. Copies of tester’s manuals are available at the links below.
HCV Testers Manual Version 5.2 (July 2026) (PDF)
LCV Testers Manual Version 5.2 (July 2026) (PDF)
Tractor Testers Manual Version 1.0 (May 2018) (PDF)
Find out more about these changes below.
Key Changes to the LCV & HCV Testing Manuals
This update includes a new eCall sub-section for the LCV manual and some changes for both manuals to the Method of Testing, Notes and Reasons for Failure (RFF).
- Section 0.1 Registration Plates LCV and HCV manuals, updated Notes text to accommodate for the green flash for vehicles with zero tailpipe emissions.
- Section 0.2 VIN LCV and HCV manuals, VIN verification using OBD scan tool.
- Section 0.5 Modifications Report LCV and HCV manuals, new reason for failure added, (g) Modifications report required for repairs carried out.
- Section 0.6 Authorisation (National Weights and Dimensions) HCV manual, new Authorisation plate templates inserted.
- Section 1.1.13 Brake Linings and Pads LCV and HCV manuals, additional wording “deteriorated” included in reasons for failure (c) & (d).
- Section 1.1.14 Brake Drums, Brake Discs LCV and HCV manuals, additional wording “cracked” included in reason for failure (a) & (b).
- Section 1.6 Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) & 1.7 Electronic Brake System (EBS) LCV and HCV manuals, additional text included in method of testing to clarify using the OBD scan tool where possible.
- Section 3.2 Condition of Glass LCV and HCV manuals, reason for failure (c) severity changed from MaD to MiD.
- Section 5.1.2 Stub Axles LCV and HCV manuals, additional wording to include “or seized in stub axle” added to reason for failure (f).
- Section 5.1.3 Wheel Bearings LCV and HCV manuals, additional wording to include “roughness” to reason for failure (a).
- Section 5.2.3 Tyres LCV and HCV manuals, new reason for failure added (w) Tyre tread wear indicator becomes exposed; severity changed from DD to MaD (hh) any tyre having a “flat spot”.
- Section 6.2.6 Other Seats (Passenger Seats) LCV and HCV manuals, new reason for failure inserted (c) permitted number of seats exceeded; positioning not in compliance with approval (MaD).
- Section 7.13 eCall LCV manual, new sub-section included to cater for the inspection of eCall.
Further Information
If you require further information on any of the above, please contact us on 091 872600 or email cvrtadmin@rsa.ie