CVRT in Ireland: 5 Things Every Driver Should Know
Every van, jeep, and truck in Ireland that’s involved in commerce needs a Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Test (CVRT) once a year. It’s what proves the vehicle’s safe to drive, meaning it has brakes that stop effectively, steering that responds, and lights that work - to name just a few parameters. No certificate, no road use.
The RSA figures for 2024 show plenty still fall short. Roughly 37 % of vans and jeeps failed their CVRT first time, mostly for stuff that’s easy to spot: worn brakes, broken bulbs, steering joints gone soft.
Nearly all of it could’ve been sorted before the booking, so we thought we’d create this article to show some of the most important things you need to know.
#1 - What Does the Commercial Vehicle CVRT Check?
A commercial vehicle test isn’t just a quick once-over. Testers check brakes, tyres, suspension, mirrors, belts, emissions, and the frame underneath. If it affects safety, it’s on the list.
#2 - Why Do Vans & Jeeps Fail CVRTs More OFten?
Light commercial vehicles take more abuse than heavy trucks e.g. constant stops, rough loads, short trips. That wear adds up. However, by keeping to Periodic Vehicle Inspections, it means most of those problems never reach the fail sheet.
#3 - What Should I Check Before My HCV CVRT?
Before you turn up, walk around the vehicle. Try the lights, look at tyre tread, top up fluids, clear warning lamps. Five minutes can be the difference between a pass and a wasted morning.
#4 - Do Certificates of Roadworthiness Last Forever?
A CRW is good for twelve months from the test date. Miss the renewal window and the vehicle’s officially off the road until it passes again, and you can’t tax it either.
#5 – When Can Book a CVRT Retest if I Fail?
If your vehicle fails its first test, the retest has to be done within 21 days and the odometer must show fewer than 4,000 extra kilometres. Miss either limit and a full test is required again. Booking the retest quickly saves both time and the cost of another complete inspection.
Book Your CVRT with Argent Today
At Argent, we carry out Commercial Vehicle Testing for vans, jeeps, and HGVs for customers across Dublin. Our technicians run full RSA-standard tests and handle retests fast when needed, so you’re very good hands from start to finish.
We know downtime costs money, so our booking system and on-site maintenance keep vehicles moving. For quick, professional testing you can rely on, call 01 572 6500.