Changes to Jacking Equipment Specifications for Class 4 MOT Test Bays
If you’re planning to open, change, or upgrade a Class 4 MOT test bay, new DVSA rules will apply from 1 April 2026.
MOT Special Notice 04-25 introduces updated minimum specifications for jacking equipment to ensure modern vehicles—particularly heavier EVs and hybrids—can be tested safely and correctly.
This guide explains what’s changing, who it affects, why it matters, and what you need to do—clearly and to the point.
What’s Changing to Jacking Equipment for Class 4 MOT Bays?
From 1 April 2026, any new or changed Class 4 MOT centre must ensure its jacking equipment meets both of the following requirements:
- Minimum Safe Working Load (SWL): 2 tonnes
- Minimum distance of 1,700mm between the centre of the lifting pads
These specifications apply only when an application is made to open or change an MOT centre on or after that date.
Who Do the New MOT Jacking Equipment Rules Apply To?
The updated specifications apply to MOT centres that submit an application from 1 April 2026 onwards, including centres that are:
- Opening a new MOT centre
- Changing ownership (site transferred to a different Authorised Examiner)
- Restarting MOT testing after a period of inactivity
- Adding an additional test lane
- Voluntarily upgrading or replacing jacking equipment (including damaged equipment)
If you fall into any of these categories, your jacking equipment must meet the new DVSA specification.
Who Is Not Affected by MOT Special Notice 04-25?
You do not need to take action if your MOT centre:
- Already has approved Class 4 test bays
- Is not making any changes before 1 April 2026
- Is only changing the AE structure (for example, adding a partner while keeping the same AE number)
- Submitted an application that is received by DVSA before 1 April 2026
In short: no changes planned, no new application—no immediate impact.
Why Has DVSA Changed the Jacking Equipment Specification?
The change reflects how vehicles have evolved.
Modern vehicles—particularly electric and hybrid models—are:
- Heavier than traditional internal combustion vehicles
- Designed with different lifting points
- More difficult to jack safely using older, lower-capacity equipment
The previous specification limited the ability to correctly lift some newer vehicles during MOT testing.
By increasing the safe working load and pad spacing, the updated standard ensures:
- Safer lifting
- Correct vehicle positioning
- Continued MOT compliance as vehicle weights increase
This is a practical update, not a cosmetic one.
Upgrading Jacking Equipment From 1 April 2026: What You Must Do
If you upgrade jacking equipment at an existing authorised MOT centre on or after 1 April 2026, the AE Designated Manager or Site Manager must notify DVSA.
The process is straightforward:
- Sign in to the MOT testing service
- Go to the MOT centre page
- Select Change testing equipment
- Enter the updated equipment details
Failure to notify DVSA when required could delay approvals or affect your MOT authorisation.
Planning Ahead: Why Early Action Matters
While many centres don’t need to act immediately, forward planning is critical if you expect to:
- Add MOT lanes in the future
- Upgrade equipment as part of a workshop refit
- Prepare for EV-ready MOT testing
- Change ownership or operational structure
Upgrading to compliant jacking equipment now can prevent rushed decisions later and ensure your workshop is ready for both regulation and vehicle trends.
How Liftmaster Can Help
At Liftmaster, we support MOT centres across the UK with:
- DVSA-compliant jacking equipment
- Expert guidance on Class 4 MOT bay specifications
- Supply, installation, and workshop planning support
- Future-proof solutions suitable for EV and hybrid vehicles
Whether you’re upgrading a single bay or planning a full MOT centre change, we’ll help you choose equipment that meets current regulations and future demands.
👉 View our range of MOT jacking equipment
👉 Speak to our team for compliance advice and workshop support
Key Takeaway
- The new rules only apply from 1 April 2026 onwards
- They affect new or changed MOT centres, not unchanged existing bays
- Jacking equipment must meet 2-tonne SWL and 1,700mm pad spacing
- The change reflects the real-world weight of modern vehicles
If you’re planning changes—plan early, upgrade smart, and stay compliant. Liftmaster is here to help.
