What is the required speed for conducting an on-road brake test?

To conduct an on-road brake test, the procedure typically specifies that the vehicle should be operated at a speed of 20 mph. This speed is chosen because it is a safe and reasonable velocity at which to test the effectiveness of the brakes without risking safety to the inspector or other road users.

At 20 mph, the technician can effectively assess the vehicle’s stopping distance and response to brake application, providing a good balance between realism and safety during the test. Conducting the test at this speed allows for an accurate evaluation of the braking system's performance under conditions that simulate actual driving scenarios. Additionally, adhering to this specific speed ensures compliance with regulations set forth for vehicle inspections, making findings reliable in terms of safety assessments.

Other speeds may not align with established testing protocols or might compromise safety during the procedure.