Hi there,
We are a RAW. We went through the very long stages to become one, after being in the business since 1989, and having over 14 low volume comnpliances under the old scheme, and now the new low volume-new- scheme.
Some facts for you:
If you RAW applicant does not by some chance become a RAW, it can go to another RAW workshop.
It will not be re-exported or asked to be destroyed whilst any inspection process or submissions are going on.
You can go to the RAW and let him (ask him) to show you the screen online of their submission and where its at (doable, but he can refuse, if he's hiding something too).
DOTARS can take longer than 12 months, they can and have waived that for similar situations.
Yes, the above is all common. Submissions, contrary to what you may have been told or read, can take 12, or 18 months, ESPECIALLY if it is there first RAW sample vehicle, ie; They have no other vehicles under RAWS yet.
Hope that helps.