The National Association of Agricultural Contractor’s (NAAC) has welcomed an announcement from the Department for Transport (DfT) that agricultural tractors will not be required to undertake roadworthiness testing.

Announced as part of a Government response introducing roadworthiness testing for fast tractors used for commercial haulage, it is made clear that, despite some opposition, mandatory vehicle testing will not be introduced for agricultural tractors as it is considered that road use is limited compared to other vehicles.

Commenting Jill Hewitt, NAAC Technical Consultant said, ‘Agricultural tractors spend the majority of their time off road and the NAAC supports the decision not to introduce mandatory roadworthiness testing. However, it is important that contractors and farmers use the vehicles ‘solely’ for agricultural use and do not step into commercial haulage, without abiding by necessary transport regulations.’

‘It is also vital, to protect the safety of road users, that all tractors are safe on the roads and the industry must continue to be rigorous in daily maintenance checks and regular servicing”

Jesse Norman MP Parliamentary,Under Secretary of State for Roads, Local Transport and Devolution said 

’Roadworthiness testing will not be required for tractors used exclusively for agriculture, as their use on the road is limited compared with other vehicles. Mandatory vehicle testing would unduly burden the agricultural sector.”