Preparing Your Bus or Truck for the RSA Driving Test
Getting your heavy goods vehicle ready for the RSA driving test isn’t just about your own driving skills, as the vehicle itself needs to meet specific standards before the test can even go ahead, which means either passing a bus test or HCV CVRT.
At Argent, we work with drivers across Ireland every day, and here’s what you need to know to avoid delays or failed attempts.
Making Sure Your Vehicle Is Roadworthy
The RSA requires that any bus, coach, or truck presented for a test must be in safe, working order. That means tyres with legal tread depth, working lights, clean mirrors, and a body that’s free from serious damage.
If your vehicle has obvious defects, the tester won’t be able to proceed. Getting a valid Commercial Vehicle CVRT beforehand helps show your vehicle is roadworthy.
Check the Paperwork
You’ll need to bring along your Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC), valid insurance disc, and current tax disc. For commercial vehicles, a valid Bus CVRT or Truck Test certificate is also required.
If your vehicle has been modified in any way (seating, fuel system, axle weights), you may also need a Vehicle Engineers Report or similar paperwork. Bringing the right documents saves wasted trips.
Look After the Small Details
Simple things can make or break the day. Seat belts should be working and accessible, the horn should sound properly, and windscreen washers must be filled.
The cab should be reasonably clean, with no loose items rolling around. If your bus has a tachograph or speed limiter fitted, make sure they’re functioning correctly.
In addition to this, buses must have all doors operating correctly and seats securely fixed, whereas trucks must be able to demonstrate full braking performance, including the handbrake.
Why? Well, if you’re testing in an articulated vehicle, the coupling and uncoupling must be safe and in line with RSA requirements.
Ensuring Your HCV CVRT or Bus Testing Goes Smoothly
Turning up unprepared can mean your test is cancelled, and you’ll lose your fee. That’s the last thing we want to happen, so it’s important that you consider the points raised here to ensure your HCV CVRT or bus testing goes without a hitch.
At Argent, we help drivers and fleet operators across Dublin and beyond keep their vehicles safe and compliant. If you’d like advice or need to book a CVRT before your driving test, call us on 01 572 6500 or visitwww.argent.ie.