The GB/UKNI Type Approval implementation date of 1 February 2026 is now here. From today, all M & N category vehicle types manufactured for sale in Great Britain must hold full GB or UKNI type approval (g11 or n11).
This marks the completion of the transition from provisional arrangements to the full GB type approval scheme for these categories.
Thank You
We want to thank manufacturers, Technical Services and industry partners for their continued engagement and preparation in the lead up to implementation. Your collaboration has been essential in supporting a smooth transition to the full GB type approval scheme.
What This Change Means
Under the legislation now in effect:
- Provisional GB approvals (p??) are no longer valid for M & N category vehicle types.
- Full GB or UKNI type approval (g11 or n11) is required to manufacture vehicles for the GB market.
- The Technical Service designation framework for GB is active. For a time‑limited period, VCA can accept test reports from EU‑designated Technical Services:
- M & N categories: reports dated on or before 31 December 2026
- O category: reports dated on or before 31 December 2027
Immediate Steps for Manufacturers
If you already hold full GB or UKNI approval:
- You can continue to manufacture and place vehicles on the GB market in line with your approval and ongoing compliance duties.
If your application is currently in progress:
- VCA will continue processing your application within the usual timescales.
Ensure your submission contains the required GB information document and supporting evidence as set out in VCA Administrative and Technical Guidance to enable assessment.
If You Have Not Yet Applied
If you have not yet submitted your application:
- Please be aware that from 1 February 2026, all M & N category vehicle types must hold full GB or UKNI type approval (g11 or n11) to be manufactured for sale in Great Britain.
- Please begin your application as soon as possible using the VCA digital portal.
Next steps:
- Review requirements on the VCA website.
- Start your application through the digital portal.
- If you need direct assistance, you can also email our team at: type.approval@vca.gov.uk
Expected Response Times
A summary of current response times for application review, assessment and approval is shown in the timeline infographic below.
Support Remains Available
We continue to provide full support to help manufacturers through this transition. You can access:
👉 Detailed guidance on GB/UKNI approval
👉 Help and technical advice via the VCA contact form
👉 Webinars covering the approval process and use of the digital portal
👉 Information on Technical Service designations and testing routes
Our teams remain available to assist whether you are completing an existing application or beginning a new one.