The launch of the DVSA follows the announcement of the DSA and VOSA merger in June, following the motoring services strategy consultation.

Robert Goodwill said: ‘The two organisations have a history of working closely together and the merger is an opportunity for the DVSA to provide even better and more efficient customer service to motorists and commercial operators. I fully support the new agency and look forward to seeing the DVSA take shape from April 2014.’

The DVSA will have a broad range of responsibilities, including processing applications for licences to operate lorries and buses, operating testing schemes for all vehicles, and enforcing the law to ensure vehicles comply with legal standards and regulations.

The agency will also enforce drivers' hours and licensing requirements, provide training and advice for commercial operators, investigate vehicle accidents, defects and recalls, and run tests for instructors of large goods vehicles, as well as driver trainers.

The new branding will be gradually introduced ahead of the formal launch in April 2014, with the DfT saying there will be ‘no change to the level or quality of services during the transition period’. Current VOSA and DSA chief executive Alastair Peoples will become the chief executive of the single agency.