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MOT rule now accepts approved LED replacement bulbs in some halogen headlights
Since 14 October 2026, testers must accept ECE-approved LED replacement bulbs in compatible halogen headlamps on specified vehicle classes. The vehicle must carry a secure approval sticker that can be checked during the test.
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AI-generated editorial illustration
Key points
The DVSA notice says the inspection manual update took effect on 14 October 2026.
The change applies to class 3, 4, 5 and 7 vehicles with existing compatible halogen headlamp units fitted with ECE-approved LED replacement bulbs.
The required approval sticker must be permanently attached, readily visible, include the bulb category and a security feature, and correspond to the fitted bulb.
Which vehicles are covered
The DVSA announced that, from 14 October 2026, testers must accept ECE-approved LED replacement bulbs in compatible halogen headlamp units on class 3, 4, 5 and 7 vehicles. The notice describes class 3 as tricycles, class 4 as cars, class 5 as larger passenger vehicles and class 7 as goods vehicles.
The change does not cover class 1 or 2 motorcycles, halogen units converted for HID bulbs, or complete LED headlamp-unit replacements. The notice applies to England, Scotland and Wales.
What to check before an MOT
For an eligible LED replacement, check that its secure approval sticker is permanently fixed to the vehicle and easy to see during the test. It must show the bulb category, such as H11 LEDr, and have a security feature, for example a hologram. Sticker designs can vary, provided they carry the required information and security feature.
The tester needs to check that the sticker is present, not cross-check approval numbers or manufacturer details against records. The headlamp must fail if the sticker appears tampered with or clearly does not match the fitted bulb. The notice also identifies an absent sticker as a failure condition.
What this means
The change is relevant to owners of class 3, 4, 5 and 7 vehicles who have fitted ECE-approved LED replacement bulbs to existing compatible halogen headlamps. The practical check is whether the required approval sticker is permanently fixed to the vehicle, visible and clearly matches the fitted bulb. The notice says testers check for the sticker rather than verify approval details against records. The supplied notice describes its scope as England, Scotland and Wales, so it does not establish the position in Northern Ireland.
Frequently asked questions
Does this change cover every LED headlamp?
No. It concerns ECE-approved LED replacement bulbs fitted in compatible existing halogen units on classes 3, 4, 5 and 7. Complete LED headlamp replacements are outside the stated scope.
What should the sticker show?
It must identify the bulb category and include a security feature. It must also be attached to the vehicle, visible, and match the fitted bulb.
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Definitions, calculations and limitations.
We process anonymised DVSA annual MOT extracts, retain the published outcomes and derive aggregated results. The make and model catalogue uses DfT/DVLA reference mappings, with additional normalisation limited to unambiguous, verified formatting matches. Ambiguous labels are not assigned automatically.
01 / Denominator
Initial normal MOT tests
N = P + F + PRS
P is an initial pass, F a fail and PRS a repaired-and-passed result. Other test types are excluded from this denominator.
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First-time pass rate
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Initial failure rate
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Repaired-and-passed tests count as initial failures, not first-time passes.
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Average odometer reading
x̄ = Σ mi / nvalid
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Rmake = 100 × Σ Pm / Σ Nm
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Recorded faults
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