Covid-19 MOT Test Restart

From 1st August

On 29th June, Roads Minister Baroness Vere announced that mandatory MOT testing will be reintroduced from 1st August 2020 as coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown restrictions are gradually being lifted.

Earlier this year the Department for Transport (DfT) said that owners of cars, motorbikes and vans were to be given a temporary 6-month exemption from MOT tests from 30th March as part of efforts during the pandemic to support the essential travel requirements of key workers.

However, now that dealerships and garages are mostly open, it is essential for drivers to ensure that their vehicle is MOT tested to ensure that parts (such as tyres, seatbelts, airbags, brakes, lights and exhausts) are in proper working order and meet legal requirements for roadworthiness.

Baroness Vere said: "As people return to our roads, it is vital that motorists are able to keep their vehicles safe. That’s why as restrictions are eased, from 1st August MOT testing will again become mandatory. Garages across the country are open and I urge drivers who are due for their MOT to book a test as soon they can."

How This Affects You

• If your vehicle has or had an MOT due date before 1st August, it will still receive a 6-month exemption from testing. However, all vehicles must still be maintained and kept in a roadworthy condition as motorists can be prosecuted for driving an unsafe vehicle. Plus, owners are able to voluntarily get their vehicle MOT tested sooner should they wish, even if they are exempt from the legal requirement.
• If your vehicle has an MOT due date after 1st August, it is highly encouraged that you book an MOT test in advance to avoid a long wait (many motorists will now be making bookings) make sure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition, particularly given effects that periods of little or no use can have on a vehicle.

If drivers feel vulnerable or are self-isolating, they should ask about Collection & Delivery of their vehicle from their home (or preferred address) when booking an MOT test, so that we can help reduce the risk of coronavirus (COVID-19) for them with our thorough hygiene and social distancing measures.

To read more about these measures see our Back to Business update

To book an MOT test

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