Fast Tractor Testing

Since 20 May 2018, fast tractors must undergo periodic tests and must display a certificate of roadworthiness (CRW).​ 
 
A ‘fast tractor’ is defined as a wheeled tractor in category T with a maximum design speed exceeding 40 km/h. If you use a fast tractor and you are unsure of its maximum design speed, you should consult its vehicle manufacturer or an authorised Irish tractor distributor. 

Exemptions

A fast tractor will not have to undergo a commercial vehicle test if it is used:

  • ​for the purposes of agricultural, horticultural, forestry, farming or fishery activity solely within the State and mainly on the land where such activity takes place, including agricultural roads, forestry roads or agricultural fields
  • exclusively on a small island. This exclusion from the requirement for compulsory testing will apply to all of the islands off the Irish coast.

It is important to note that an exemption from undergoing a commercial vehicle test is not an exemption from the requirement to ensure your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition when it is used on a public road.

I am not sure if my Tractor is required to undergo a Roadworthiness Test? 

To assist tractor owners who maybe unsure as to whether your vehicle is required to undergo a Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Test RSA have prepared an info graphic​ entitled "Does my Fast Tractor require a Certificate of Roadworthiness (PDF)".​​ We recommend you view this document in the first instance and if you are still unsure please send us an email  cvrtadmin@rsa.ie outlining how and where you use your tractor and we will be happy to issue you with a clarification. 

Where can I get my Fast Tractor Tested? 

Fast tractors are tested within the Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Testing (CVRT) network in a number of authorised heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) testing centres. Details of test centres currently authorised to test fast tractors are available at Find a Test Centre

How frequently must I test my fast tractor? 

The first test will be due when your vehicle is four years old, i.e. from the fourth anniversary of first registration. After that it must be tested every two years. 

What if my tractor is already more than four years old on 20 May 2018? 

You must book it in for a test as soon as possible. If it passes the test, the CRW we send you will be valid for two years from the date of the test provided that the test is carried out before 20 August 2018, i.e. a three-month grace period has been included in the Amendment Regulations.

Is there any advantage to delaying testing my fast tractor? 

No. If your fast tractor is subject to compulsory testing and is over four years old on 20 May 2018 and is tested later than 20 August 2018, it will receive a CRW with an expiry date of 20 May 2020.

Is it necessary to test agricultural trailers? 

No agricultural trailers which are not commercial trailers in category 03 or 04 do not require a test.  However, under road traffic law, a trailer must be roadworthy at all times if you use it on a public road.  

If a fast tractor is used for both exempted and non-exempted activities, should it be tested? 

The requirement to test a fast tractor is based on its use. Any fast tractor which is used for a non-exempted activity requires a CRW. 
 
Examples of fast tractors which require testing include those used for:

  • local authority work
  • construction industry
  • quarry industry
  • manufacturing industry
  • mining industry
  • road construction/road works

​What is the penalty for using a vehicle without a valid CRW? 

If you use a vehicle without a valid CRW, it may result in a court appearance whereby on conviction a fine not exceeding €5,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months, or both, may be imposed. Five penalty points would also apply on conviction.

How much does it cost to test a fast tractor?

The test fees are as follows and mirror ​tho​se applicable to HCVs with a similar design gross vehicle weight (DGVW):

​Vehicle Category 

​Test Fee (ex. VAT)

Retest fee (ex. VAT)​

Fast tractors having a DGVW exceeding 3,500 kg but not exceeding 7,500 kg

​€143.91

€47.26​

Fast tractors having a DGVW exceeding 7,500 kg​

​€167.90

​​€59.08

What does the test entail?

The test is a maintenance and condition check of your vehicle. It includes a check of the items necessary to assure a minimum standard of roadworthiness of your vehicle, i.e. braking, lighting, steering, and suspension systems, etc. Essentially, it mirrors the test currently carried out on HCVs but modified where necessary to suit the design characteristics of fast tractors. 
Download the Fast Tractor Testers Manual (PDF)​​

Contact us

If you have any queries on the above, please contact CVRT Admin by email: cvrtadmin@rsa.ie or Tel: 091 872600

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