Technical Services

This page was last updated on 15th May 2025

Designation of Technical Services for GB type approval

VCA are now accepting applications from prospective Technical Services for the following GB type approval Regulations:

• Whole Vehicle Type Approval (not including NSSTA or IVA) (2018/858)
• Space for Mounting & Fixing Rear Registration Plates (1003/2010)
• Towing Devices (1005/2010)
• Windscreen Wiper and Washer Systems (1008/2010)
• Wheel Guards (1009/2010)
• Spray Suppression Systems (109/2011)
• Masses and Dimensions (1230/2012)
• Vehicle access and Manoeuvrability (130/2012)
• Manufacturers Statutory Plate and VIN (19/2011)
• eCall Systems (2015/758)
• CO2 Emissions of Heavy-Duty Vehicles (2017/2400)
• Advanced Emergency Braking Systems (347/2012)
• Lane Departure Warning Systems (351/2012)
• Installation of Tyres (458/2011)
• Sound Level (540/2014)
• Emissions (EURO VI) Heavy Duty Vehicles (595/2009)
• Gear Shift Indicators (65/2012)
• General Safety (661/2009)
• Windscreen Defrosting and Demisting Systems (672/2010)
• Emissions (Euro 6) Light Duty Vehicles (715/2007)
• Pedestrian Protection (78/2009)
• Hydrogen Systems (79/2009)

Technical services can start their applications by downloading and completing the Application for Designation by VCA as a GB Technical Service form.

Once completed the applicant should login to the VCA Portal and by selecting “Other applications” then “Technical Service Designation”, create a work order and upload the application form along with any other relevant information. If your organisation does not already have a Portal account you will need to create one first.

Details of the costs of applying, and other fees associated with being a designated Technical Service can be found on the Designation Fees Payable page

Portal guidance and support materials are available on the VCA Portal page. If you have any further questions regarding using the Portal or opening an account, please contact vcaportalsupport@vca.gov.uk

NOTE: In the initial phase of the GB type approval scheme (until 31 December 2026 for M and N categories and 31 December 2027 for O category), VCA will be able to accept test reports from any Technical Service designated by an EU Approval Authority for the subject in question. This derogation is unaffected by the expressions of interest and designation processes described above.

NOTE: UNECE Technical Service status does not automatically confer GB Technical Service status as these are legally distinct type approval frameworks.