Top 10 Common Compliance Failures Found in DVSA Inspections
Every HGV operator knows that DVSA road side, on site or Desk based assessments (DBA’s) are a crucial part of maintaining road safety and compliance standards — but that doesn’t make them any less stressful. Whether at the roadside or during a site visit, a DVSA inspection can uncover critical failings that not only lead to hefty penalties but can also damage your operator reputation and licence.
Understanding the most common issues the DVSA finds can help you stay ahead of the game. In this article, we outline the top 10 compliance failures flagged during DVSA inspections and we offer practical guidance on how to avoid them.
1. Inadequate Maintenance Records
Poor or missing maintenance records are one of the most frequent causes for concern during DVSA audits. Operators are required to keep detailed records of inspections, repairs, and servicing schedules.
Avoid it by:
Using digital systems to log maintenance history
Ensuring every inspection is recorded using upto date paperwork and completed properly.
Ensuring every repair is recorded and signed back into service.
Storing records securely for at least 15 months, as per DVSA guidance
2. Tachograph Misuse or Tampering
Whether intentional or accidental, issues with tachograph data — such as driving without a card, incorrect manual entries, or manipulation — are taken very seriously.
Avoid it by:
Training drivers regularly on correct tachograph use including manual entries (which are required)
Downloading and analysing tachograph data at least every 28 days (drivers) and 90 days (vehicles)
Using a good tachograph analysis software to flag issues early
3. Failure to Monitor Drivers’ Hours
Driver fatigue is a major road safety risk. The DVSA frequently finds breaches of working time regulations, often due to poor oversight or lax enforcement.
Avoid it by:
Using automated systems to alert you to breaches
Educating drivers on rest periods, breaks, and daily driving limits.
Conducting regular audits of drivers’ hours
4. Roadworthiness Defects
Vehicles found with worn tyres, faulty lights, brake issues, or steering defects often result in immediate prohibitions. These issues should be identified long before DVSA intervention.
Avoid it by:
Performing thorough daily walkaround checks
Acting on driver defect reports immediately
Review your regular safety inspections for driver reportable defects and investigate them.
5. No Evidence of Driver Defect Reporting
Even if defects are being reported, failure to document them properly is a red flag for inspectors. Every report must be traceable and show resolution.
Avoid it by:
Using defect reporting apps for real-time submissions
Keeping records of reported issues and repair follow-up
Reviewing reports daily and signing them off as complete
6. Operating Outside Licence Conditions
Whether it’s exceeding authorised vehicle numbers, operating from an unauthorised site, or failing to inform the Traffic Commissioner of changes, licence breaches are serious.
Avoid it by:
Regularly reviewing your O-Licence conditions
Informing the Office of the Traffic Commissioner of any changes
Keeping site documentation and planning permissions up to date
7. Lack of Written Policies or Procedures
A compliant operation is a well-documented one. DVSA inspectors will expect to see clear policies on maintenance, defect reporting, tachograph use, and driver conduct.
Avoid it by:
Creating and maintaining a comprehensive compliance manual
Providing staff training and refresher sessions
Keeping copies of policies accessible and up to date
8. Unroadworthy Trailers
Trailers are often overlooked in compliance planning — yet they’re just as important as the vehicle unit. Brake performance, ABS/EBS faults, and lighting defects are common issues.
Avoid it by:
Including trailers in daily checks and safety inspections
Ensuring trailers are registered and maintained with the same rigour as vehicles
Logging all trailer maintenance separately and clearly
9. Poor Driver Behaviour and Attitude
DVSA inspectors often assess driver professionalism during roadside stops. Poor record-keeping, aggressive driving, or lack of understanding of regulations can all raise flags.
Avoid it by:
Conducting thorough driver inductions
Offering ongoing training in compliance, customer service, and safety
Monitoring performance and addressing concerns early
10. Failure to Act on Previous Warnings
One of the most serious mistakes is failing to act on prior DVSA advice or enforcement notices. Repeat offences show a lack of control and can result in public inquiries or O-Licence revocation.
Avoid it by:
Keeping records of all DVSA correspondence
Implementing action plans to address concerns
Seeking external compliance support if needed
Final Thoughts
Compliance with DVSA standards is not just a legal obligation — it’s a cornerstone of running a safe, professional, and sustainable HGV operation. By understanding the most common pitfalls and taking proactive steps to address them, operators can dramatically reduce the risk of enforcement action and build a culture of continuous improvement.
Whether you run a fleet of five vehicles or fifty, the principles remain the same: keep accurate records, train your team, monitor performance, and act swiftly when issues arise. In a sector where compliance equals credibility, staying one step ahead of the DVSA is not just smart — it’s essential.