The vast majority of UK vehicle owners need to get an MOT test done once per year. This is a legal requirement for most vehicles, and there are hefty fines for those who do not comply with the law. There’s a lot of questions which we get asked about MOTs, so we though we’d share our thoughts on a few of them here.
Are Any Vehicles Exempt From The MOT Test?
Yes! Some vehicles will not be legally required to get their annual MOT. This includes vehicles which are less than 3 years old, and some classic cars which are more than 40 years old. If you have a classic car, don’t just assume it’s exempt. It still needs to be in a roadworthy state and be safe for use on UK roads. As well as that, any significant structural changes made over the years may mean that they no longer qualify for exemption.
You may be surprised to learn than tractors are also exempt from needing an MOT!
Declaring MOT Exemption
No matter what reason you have to not need an MOT, you still need to make an application to the DVLA to declare exemption. This also doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t get a test. It’s still a good idea to get your vehicle tested to ensure it’s safe on our roads. You may not be required to have an MOT certificate, but you’re still required to make sure the vehicle is roadworthy, and will be liable if you’re found driving a dangerous vehicle.
How Long Does An MOT Test Take?
Most MOT tests only take around an hour. However, there are many factors which could increase the amount of time it takes. On a particularly busy day, your car may not be first in line for its test. If it’s important for you to have you vehicle back by a certain time, make sure you discuss this with your mechanic.
As well as that, you need to be prepared for what will happen if your car fails. Some reasons for failure are a quick and simple fix, like broken lights for example. However, other reasons like suspension issues could take much longer to repair. It’s always best to have an alternative means of transport available, just in case your vehicle needs to remain in the garage for longer than expected.
Can You Drive Without An MOT?
In short, no. Once your previous MOT test has expired, your car is no longer legal to drive on UK roads. The only exception to this is if you’re driving it to the test centre for its test. If you’re caught driving a car without a valid MOT certificate, your car insurance will be invalid. This means you could face substantial fines and points on your license.
Book Your MOT Test With ACG Auto Repairs
If you’ve got a vehicle that needs its MOT test, we can help. We can even MOT motorcycles! Contact our friendly team today to book your test.
