ADR REFERENCE GUIDE

ADR 31 and ADR 35: Vehicle Braking

Braking evidence starts with the correct vehicle category and braking rule family.

Check applicability first

The vehicle category, build information, approval pathway and proposed configuration need to be identified before selecting an applicable edition. Use the official catalogue and legislation; the latest published edition is not automatically the right edition for every existing vehicle.

Identify the relevant rule family

ADR 31 concerns braking systems for passenger cars, while ADR 35 concerns commercial vehicle braking systems. The correct selection and edition depend on the actual vehicle classification and applicability provisions. Do not choose a rule solely from a familiar model name.

Describe the system and changes

For an initial discussion, send the vehicle identity, relevant mass information if known, wheel and tyre information, and details of changes to brakes, controls or the vehicle configuration. Existing test evidence should identify the tested system and vehicle so its relevance can be assessed.

Common questions

Component size alone does not establish the performance or compliance of a braking system. The whole configuration and required evidence matter.

Related services and guides

Official references

Reference check: 20 October 2026. The applicable edition and vehicle coverage must be checked for the particular project.

Tell us what you need

Send the vehicle make, model and year or range, the component details, or a short engineering brief. If you are unsure about the technical pathway, tell us the outcome you want.