BVRLA calls for VOSA and DVLA merger to save fleets time and money
Under the BVRLA’s vision of the merger, MOT and commercial vehicle Annual Test data would be transferred to DVLA, while fines for Vehicle Excise Duty evasion, continuous insurance enforcement and continuous registration would be overseen by VOSA. And there would be a single website for the combined agency.
‘We believe that this root and branch review would deliver real efficiencies for government by streamlining enforcement and back-office systems,’ said BVRLA legal and policy director Jay Parmar.
‘It would foster a more joined-up approach to motoring policies and lead to better sharing of information, while creating a one-stop-shop for motorists and fleet operators.’
The BVRLA made its suggestions in its response to a government consultation on the future of the DfT’s executive transport agencies, which include the DVLA, VOSA, the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) and Driver Standards Agency (DSA).
Both VOSA and the DVLA have been tasked with providing more digital and customer-friendly services, improving the testing regime and saving money.
The DVLA is already considering the BVRLA’s suggestion for eliminating the need to display a tax disc. VOSA hopes the introduction of privately run Authorised Testing Facilities will improve the provision of commercial vehicle annual testing, but the BVRLA still believes that the agency needs to go further by accrediting non-VOSA technicians to provide tests.
‘There is huge potential for these government agencies to work more efficiently, cut red tape and improve customer service,’ said Parmar.
‘The Government is slowly moving in the right direction and we will keep applying pressure to ensure that they deliver.’