To make sure our vehicles are safe and legal for the road, the majority of us have a MOT once a year. But did you know that some automobiles are actually exempt from the MOT requirement?
The reasons for MOT exemption, how to determine if your automobile is exempt, and the procedure for requesting a MOT exemption certificate are all covered in this page.
What is the MOT Exemption?
The MOT Exemption is a rule in the UK that allows some vehicles to be exempt from the annual roadworthiness test (MOT). The exemption applies to vehicles that are over 40 years old and are considered to be of historic interest. Vehicles that are exempt from the MOT test are still required to meet the minimum safety and environmental standards, but they are not required to undergo the MOT test on an annual basis.
What Vehicles Are Exempt From MOTs?
In the UK, some vehicles are exempt from the annual roadworthiness test (MOT). The exemption applies to vehicles that are over 40 years old and are considered to be of historic interest.
The following types of vehicles are exempt from the MOT test:
- Cars, vans, and motorcycles that are over 40 years old and have not been significantly altered or modified.
- Historic vehicles that are used only for shows, events, and other similar activities, and are not used for regular everyday driving.
- Classic vehicles that have been manufactured to the same specifications as vehicles that were produced over 40 years ago.
- Replica vehicles that have been built using parts from vehicles that are over 40 years old.
It’s important to note that even if a vehicle is exempt from the MOT test, it must still be kept in a roadworthy condition and meet the minimum safety and environmental standards. The owner may still be liable for any road accidents caused by a poorly maintained vehicle.
It’s always advisable to check with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to confirm whether a particular vehicle is exempt from the MOT test.
What Counts As A Substantial Change?
In the UK, a substantial change to a vehicle refers to any modification or alteration that affects the vehicle’s roadworthiness or safety. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) defines a substantial change as a change that is “more than just cosmetic.”
Examples of substantial changes that may affect a vehicle’s MOT status include:
- Engine changes: Replacing the engine with one from a different make or model, or modifying the engine in a way that affects its performance or emissions.
- Chassis changes: Modifying the chassis in a way that affects the vehicle’s structural integrity or roadworthiness.
- Suspension changes: Replacing the suspension system with one from a different make or model, or modifying the suspension in a way that affects its performance or safety.
- Brake changes: Replacing the brake system with one from a different make or model, or modifying the brakes in a way that affects their performance or safety.
- Steering changes: Replacing the steering system with one from a different make or model, or modifying the steering in a way that affects its performance or safety.
It’s important to note that any substantial change to a vehicle must be approved by the DVSA and must comply with the relevant regulations and standards. If a vehicle has undergone a substantial change, it may need to undergo a new MOT test before it can be used on the road.
What Doesn’t Count As A Substantial Change?
These are not regarded as substantial alterations if they have been made with the intention of increasing safety or if they utilize original replacement parts. These consist of:
- Any auto parts purchased for repairs when the original models are no longer manufactured or accessible
- A bodyshell that is identical to the original design from back when the car was being produced.
- Axles and running gear modifications should only be made when doing so will improve efficiency, safety, or environmental performance.
How Do I Declare MOT Exemption?
You must declare your MOT exemption before you can just stop taking it in for MOTs. By visiting the GOV website and completing the V112 Form, you can accomplish this. The form is straightforward; all you need is your vehicle’s VIN, your full name, your signature, and confirmation that you are correctly registering your car as MOT exempt.
What Is Vehicle Excise Duty Exemption?
Most car owners are required to pay what is known as “road tax,” sometimes known as Vehicle Excise Duty (VED). However, after your car is 40 and is free from MOT requirements, it also qualifies for VED exemption. It should be emphasized that even with a VED exemption, paying the tax on your car is still necessary.
Exceptions to age-based MOT exemption
If your vehicle has undergone significant modifications during the last 30 years, it is not eligible for this exemption. In general, this can refer to any modifications made to the engines, running gear, or axles. See the whole list of what the government defines as a substantial change.
Do I still need to conduct checks on my MOT exempt car?
Yes, it’s still crucial to provide your MOT-exempt car routine inspections and upkeep.
Even though your car’s MOTs are no longer required, insurance policies still require you to keep your vehicle roadworthy. Many components that would fail a MOT test, including as faulty or failing brakes, cracked windscreens, and partially worn tyres, are nonetheless grounds for driving convictions.
What is good practice for MOT exempt vehicles?
It’s crucial to do extensive and frequent checks on your MOT exempt car, whether you manage this through servicing or voluntary MOT tests. We advise conducting routine examinations on:
- Checking the brakes for worn brake discs or pads
- Making sure the legal maximum for tyre tread depth is met
- Making sure that all of the lights are operational and that any broken bulbs are replaced. Checking the amounts of brake or engine oil
- Making sure that factors like a cracked windscreen or malfunctioning wipers don’t impair the driver’s ability to see the road
- Make an appointment for a voluntary MOT at a nearby dealership if you believe your MOT-exempt vehicle needs to be checked for any of these components or hasn’t been checked in a while.
When does a motorcycle become MOT exempt?
Mot exemption for motorcycles are the same as others: 40 years.
Are electric cars MOT exempt?
Only electric vehicles that are less than three years old are exempt from the MOT.
