VOSA and DSA merge to form Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency

The launch of a newly-formed Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has been announced today. The new name will gradually replace those of the existing Vehicle & Operator Services Agency, VOSA, and the Driving Standards Agency, DSA – combining their functions under a single umbrella.

The new agency, whose formation was announced by the roads minister Robert Goodwill, will employ a total of 4,600 people throughout the UK. Its responsibilities will include processing applications for HGV and PSV operator licences, operating testing schemes for all vehicles, and enforcement of legal standards and regulations. It will also provide training and advice for commercial operators, investigate accidents, defects and recalls, and run tests for LGV instructors and driver trainers.

The new DVSA name will be gradually introduced ahead of a formal launch in April 2014, with DSA and VOSA’s services and trading funds set to be brought together over the next financial year. The Department for Transport said there would be no change to the level or quality of services during the interim.

Alastair Peoples, currently the chief executive of both VOSA and DSA, will remain at the head of the new, single agency.

Robert Goodwill said: “In June the department announced that DSA and VOSA would merge to form a new agency. This decision was made following the motoring services strategy consultation, and is a demonstration of the government’s commitment to put customers and businesses at the heart of its services.

“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.”

In a written statement to Parliament, the minister added: “I have considered a range of options for the name of the new agency, and have decided that it will be known as the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), to reflect the work of both its predecessors and the crucial contribution they make to road safety.

“In keeping with government practices, the cost of the rebranding of the agency will be kept to a minimum, and a number of changes will be made to legislation (giving powers to the agency to conduct its work).”