The Driver and Vehicle Testing Agency's key aim is to promote and improve road safety. The Agency operates from a number of geographical locations, including 15 combined vehicle test and practical driving test centres, 2 stand alone centres for driving tests, 6 theory test centres, 2 enforcement centres and 13 dynamic weighbridge facilities, 5 of which can be operated by customers themselves.

The Agency carries out over 500,000 roadworthiness checks a year on cars and motorcycles, light goods vehicles, trailers, large passenger carrying vehicles and heavy goods vehicles. Over 40,000 Driving tests are carried per year in 4 main groups ie theory tests, practical 'L' tests, large good vehicle (LGV) tests and passenger carrying vehicle (PCV) tests. In addition to this the Agency maintains an up-to-date register of around 700 approved driving instructors. The Agency's Compliance Section, are responsible for checking both vehicles and drivers to ensure they comply with statutory legal requirements.