Useful Facts to Know About Commercial Vehicle Testing in Ireland
Ireland’s roads are full of commercial vehicles, whether it’s vans making deliveries or buses carrying passengers. Every one of them has to be kept safe and legal, which is where the Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Test (CVRT) comes in.
It’s a requirement that sometimes feels routine, but without it, vehicles wouldn’t be held to consistent safety standards. In this article, we cover some useful facts you should know about this important test.
Are Just Trucks Covered by Commercial Vehicle Testing?
Plenty of drivers think the CVRT is just for trucks, but the scheme is actually much wider than that. Light vans, jeeps and buses all have their own testing requirements, and so do more specialist vehicles.
You’ll see categories such as:
Van CVRT and Light Commercial Vehicle Testing
Bus CVRT for public service vehicles
Ambulance CVRT, campervans CVRT, and motor homes testing
Truck & Trailer CVRT and Heavy Commercial Vehicle Testing
The point is, if you’re driving something for work or carrying passengers, there’s a CVRT category that applies to you.
What Gets Checked in a CVRT?
A CVRT isn’t just a quick glance over the bonnet - it’s a structured inspection of the systems that matter most for safety. Brakes are measured for stopping power, tyres for wear, and suspension for stability.
Lights, reflectors and indicators are also tested to make sure other road users can actually see you. Even seat belts and emissions are part of the process. Put simply, the test is there to answer one question: Is this vehicle safe to drive?
Why Regular Inspections Matter
If you’re an operator running a fleet, the annual test isn’t enough. Day-to-day use takes its toll, and problems can creep in long before the next CVRT is due.
That’s why many businesses arrange additional checks, like Periodic Vehicle Inspections, HGV 12 Week Maintenance Inspections, or Mixed Fleet Testing when they’ve got a bit of everything in the yard.
The benefit is simple: fewer surprises. Getting regular inspections done means you spend less time off the road, pay less in repairs, and stay behind the wheel.
Technology Checks Are Also Carried Out
Modern vehicles also carry technology that needs attention. Tachographs, which record driver hours, must be properly installed and calibrated. Speed limiters, checked at an approved Speed Limiter Centre, keep vehicles from pushing beyond safe limits.
Maintaining these systems isn’t just about avoiding penalties, as they also have a big part to play in stopping accidents caused by speeding or fatigue. This makes systems like these just as critical as brakes and tyres.
Stay Road-Ready with Argent in Your Corner
At Argent, we cover the full range of commercial vehicle testing, so we’ve got your back for all your testing needs. From van and bus CVRTs to full truck and trailer inspections, we make sure everything is safe and legal.
Our team also looks after tachographs, speed limiters and ongoing maintenance checks, so you’ve got one place to keep your vehicles on the road. Get in touch with Argent today to book your CVRT and keep your fleet road-ready.