Ok, found it. Not saying this proves anything, just useful info.
Thread:
http://uk-mkivs.net/forums/t/469110.aspx?PageIndex=1
Relevant Post:
ok people I have a reply!
Me-
"Hello,
I hope I have chosen the correct department and you can help me out. I have heard a lot of 2nd hand information about new rules coming into force for MOT testing and would like to hear it from the horses mouth!
To cut to the chase..... I have an after market HID kit fitted to the dipped beam headlights of my 2001 VW Golf into after market projector lens headlights. I believe my beam has the correct pattern but I do not have headlight washers or a self levelling system in the headlights. Question being once the new rules are fully enforced will my car fail it's MOT with HIDS fitted but no washers or levelling system? Or will it pass providing the beam pattern is correct?
Many thanks for your help"
VOSA-
"Dear Mr. Bruce
Thank you for your email enquiry dated 16th March 2012, concerning the
above.
HID lamps that have an output of less than 2000 Lumens do not need headlamp
levelling or washing. LED lamps under 2000 Lumens must have self
levelling, but do not need washing.
It is not possible for an MOT tester to determine whether or not a
particular lamp is more than 2000 Lumens or not. The MOT test therefore
uses the lowest criteria that can realistically be applied; so if a
particular vehicle is fitted with a headlamp levelling or washing system,
then we consider it logical to assume that it requires it by law and
therefore it must work ; conversely, if a vehicle is not fitted with these
systems, it would be logical to assume that they are not legally required.
DfT produce a factsheet on aftermarket HiD headlamps at
http://www2.dft.gov.uk/pgr/roadsafety/d ... lamps.html although this
does not mention the 2000 lumen requirement.
I hope this information has assisted you with your enquiry, but if you have
any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us again.
Kind Regards,
Stephen
Customer Service Centre
VOSA Operations Directorate
Tel: 0300 123 9000"
So, MOT stations have no way of testing our lumen output so as long as your dipped headlights meet the correct beam pattern and are aimed correctly they will pass and if you do have washers and levellers they must be working.
Unfortunately the link doesn't work and I can't find the info on there site yet.
Hope this clears it up for people.