Dangerous goods (ADR) new inaccessible battery declaration

From 6 February 2026, a new Inaccessible Battery Declaration will be added to ADR vehicle applications (ADRIII and ADRIIIS forms). It only applies where starter or auxiliary batteries cannot be accessed during the ADR inspection. In these cases, batteries must be checked before the vehicle is brought to test, so the declaration is correctly completed, and ADR 9.2.2 is met. 

What you need to do 

New applications (from 6 February 2026): 

Use the updated ADRIII or ADRIIIS forms (available on GOV.UK). If any starter or auxiliary battery cannot be accessed at test, then: 

• inspect the battery before the test 

• complete the Inaccessible Battery Declaration section, confirming compliance with ADR requirements 

• it is essential to ensure that the correct declaration is brought to the test. The declaration must be completed to the following exact wording below: 

INACCESSIBLE AUXILIARY/STARTER BATTERIES DECLARATION 

Due to restricted access to the auxiliary/starter batteries at the DVSA ADR inspection, I declare that the auxiliary/starter batteries installed in the vehicle have been inspected and confirm they fully comply with the requirements of ADR Section 9.2.2. 

Signed:  

Name (BLOCK CAPITALS): 

Company:  

Status:  

Date: 

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Applications already in progress: 

• updated forms cannot be used 

• a signed declaration on company letterhead at the ADR test, confirming batteries were inspected before the test 

• declarations completed on the day without proof of inspection will not be accepted 

Where to find the forms 

Apply to get a vehicle approved to transport dangerous goods (ADR) here on GOV.UK: Vehicle approved to transport goods (ADR) form