Update - Covid-19 Testing For HGV Drivers Using The Port Of Dover Or Eurotunnel

1st January 2021

Kent travel update, 31 December 2020.

Thanks to the support of the army, the backlog of HGVs in Kent has been cleared and hauliers making their way to Dover and the Eurotunnel continue to be tested swiftly and safely.

We strongly urge HGV drivers heading to the Port of Dover ensure they have a negative COVID test before travelling to Kent.

HGVs leaving England for France can only cross the Channel with evidence of an authorised negative COVID test, that has been conducted within the 72-hour period before their departure. This is mandated by the UK and French governments.

COVID testing facilities are still available at Manston Airport for HGV drivers heading to Port of Dover, or on the M20 for hauliers heading to Eurotunnel.

The postcode for the entrance to Manston Airport is CT12 5FF.

Eurotunnel traffic must continue to go via the M20, where testing is at Junction 8. Be warned this could cause further delays to journeys. Please check for alternative routes.

Please follow @KentHighways and Highways England for the latest traffic updates before travelling to Kent.

Where to get your COVID test

If you are already heading to Eurotunnel, you must go to Junction 8 of the M20 and join the queue there.

If you are heading to the Port of Dover, you must go to Manston Airport (entrance CT12 5FF).

To leave England you must undertake a rapid-COVID test. This is mandated by the UK and French governments.

Failure to comply will lead to you being turned away from all ports.

COVID testing is not available at any medical facility in the Kent area. If you visit a medical facility you will be turned away.

You must not leave your vehicle to try and be tested at another site.

At Junction 8 of the M20 and Manston Airport

COVID testing is taking place at Junction 8 of the M20 for HGV drivers heading to Eurotunnel, and at Manston Airport for HGV drivers heading to the Port of Dover.

You must be with, and remain in, your vehicle, unless requested to leave your vehicle by a member of Kent Police or medical staff. Please adhere to social distancing.

Once tested, it will take 40 minutes to get a result.

If your result is negative, you will be directed to your departure point.

If your result is positive, further information will be provided on site and support will be available.

We are doing everything we can as quickly as possible to help you continue on your journey.

Thank you for your patience.