An authorised examiner may test a motor vehicle for the purpose of ascertaining whether the following requirements are complied with –
The construction and use requirements.
The requirement that the condition of the vehicle is not such that its use on a road would involve danger of injury to any person.
To test a vehicle, the examiner may –
Require the driver to comply with reasonable instructions.
Drive the vehicle.
A driver may elect that the test is differed to a later time and place, unless it appears to an examiner that –
A collision has occurred owing to the presence of the vehicle on a road, and it is requisite that a test should be carried out forthwith. If the constable is not to carry the test out themselves, may require that the vehicle shall not be taken away until the test has been carried out.
The vehicle is so defective that it ought not to be allowed to proceed without a test being carried out.
If a person obstructs an authorised examiner or fails to comply with a requirement of the section, they are guilty of an offence.
The act lists those who may act as an examiner, which includes a constable authorised to act on behalf of a chief officer of police. Check your force policy to ensure you are authorised.