Standards Enforcement Program for FMVSS No. 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components"

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is an operating administration of the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) and its mission is to save lives, prevent injuries, and reduce economic costs associated with motor vehicle crashes. As part of its mission to reduce fatalities and injuries caused by motor vehicle crashes, the NHTSA promulgates Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). Manufacturers of motor vehicles and items of motor vehicle equipment are required to certify that each product they sell in the United States meets the requirements of all applicable safety standards. 49 U.S.C. 30112. NHTSA's Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance (OVSC) is responsible for oversight and enforcement of the requirement for manufacturers to meet the applicable safety standards. This contract effort will enable the agency to meet its mission by assuring that motor vehicles meet the requirements of FMVSS No. 206, Door Locks and Door Retention Components.

FMVSS No. 206 establishes minimum performance requirements for motor vehicle door locks and door retention components. The purpose of FMVSS No. 206 is to minimize the likelihood of occupants being thrown from a vehicle as a result of impact. The requirements for compliance testing of motor vehicle door locks and door retention components include testing such components to the load test requirements of FMVSS No. 206 as specified in TP-206-08.