An ATL, or Automated Test Lane, is an MOT bay where the equipment runs a guided automated sequence and sends readings to the MOT testing service. A One Person Test Lane (OPTL) also allows one tester to work alone; an ATL is distinguished by its additional automation and built-in axle weighing.
What an ATL is
ATL describes the way the MOT bay operates, not a separate MOT class. The equipment is connected so the test sequence and data flow are automated, reducing the amount of manual result entry required from the tester.
A typical ATL includes a connected roller brake tester with load cells for axle weighing, a lift or pit, headlamp tester, decelerometer, emissions equipment and play detectors.
ATL vs OPTL
Both an ATL and an OPTL are one-person test-lane arrangements. Both meet the stated DVSA requirements for a one-person lane.
The key distinction is that the ATL adds an automated brake-test sequence and built-in axle weighing. The OPTL has the required testing equipment without that additional axle-weighing function.
| Consideration | OPTL | ATL |
|---|---|---|
| Automation | Required testing equipment, tester-controlled | Automated brake-test sequence |
| Axle weighing | Not included | Built-in load cells weigh the vehicle during braking |
| Data to MTS | Sent from the connected equipment | Sent from the connected equipment, guided by the sequence |
| Initial cost | Lower | Higher |
| DVSA requirements | Met | Met |
What is in an ATL
- Connected roller brake tester with load cells for axle weighing
- Lift or inspection pit
- Headlamp beam tester
- Decelerometer
- Emissions equipment
- Play detectors
The exact specification still depends on the MOT class and the selected equipment. Product-level capacities and specifications should come from the relevant bay and product data.
Does a new bay need to be an ATL?
No. A new bay does not have to be an ATL, and an OPTL meets DVSA requirements.
The reason to consider ATL is the additional automation and axle weighing. ATL has a higher initial cost, although no fixed premium is given. See the MOT bay cost guide for the pricing context.
ATL and connected equipment
Connected equipment is not exclusive to ATL. A new bay’s brake tester, decelerometer, exhaust gas analyser and diesel smoke meter must connect to the MOT testing service and send readings automatically.
ATL builds on that connected-equipment requirement with the automated test sequence and axle weighing. See the DVSA approval guide for the connection rules.
ATL for Class 7
Class 7 goods vehicles can be tested on an ATL sized for the longer, heavier vehicles covered by the class. Class 7 covers conventional goods vehicles over 3,000kg up to and including 3,500kg design gross weight and, from 1 June 2026, qualifying zero-emission goods vehicles over 3,500kg up to and including 4,250kg. The lift or pit and brake tester must be specified for the vehicle weight and bay layout.
See the Class 7 MOT bays page for the full Class 7 bay specification.
ATL MOT bay FAQs
What does ATL stand for?
Automated Test Lane. It is an MOT bay with an automated test sequence and connected equipment that sends readings to the MOT testing service.
What is the difference between ATL and OPTL?
Both allow one tester to work alone. An ATL adds an automated brake-test sequence and built-in axle weighing, while an OPTL provides the essential one-person testing arrangement without that additional weighing function.
Does a new MOT bay have to be an ATL?
No. An OPTL meets DVSA requirements.
Does an ATL weigh the vehicle?
Yes. Load cells in the brake tester weigh the vehicle during the braking test.
Is an ATL more expensive than an OPTL?
Yes, because of the added automation and axle weighing, but no fixed difference is given. See the cost guide for the pricing context.
Can Class 7 vans be tested on an ATL?
Yes, where the ATL is specified for the Class 7 vehicle range and the lift or pit and brake tester suit it. Class 7 covers conventional goods vehicles over 3,000kg up to and including 3,500kg, and, from 1 June 2026, qualifying zero-emission goods vehicles up to and including 4,250kg.