How Classic Cars are MOT Exempt? 

After the law change in May 2018, which stated vehicles that reach 40 years of age become MOT-exempt and after that law change nearly 300,000 classic cars added to MOT-exempt list. If you are looking for your vehicle MOT Stoke On Tent, then you can visit us we have an experienced team of testers who test your vehicle in less than an hour.

As new rules were implemented in 2018, many classic car owners may wonder what the change means for them and whether their cars still require an MOT. To answer this question we have made a simple guide below to help you understand the 40-year MOT exemption laws.

Car Age to be Tax-Exempt

As per the Department for Transportation, cars aged 40 and older do not need to undergo their annual MOT check. 

Before the rule change in May 2018, Only vehicles built or first registered before 1960 were MOT-exempt, which are almost 200,000 cars. But after the rule change the numbers dramatically increased and now approximately 300,000 extra classic cars become MOT-exempt because of the rule change. 

Types of Cars are Covered by the 40-year MOT Exemption Regulations

After the law changed all manner of era-defining car models have become legal for the road without any annual inspection of MOT, including BMW 507, Escort (MK l), Granada, Fiat X1/9, and Triumph Stag.

Exceptions of 40-year MOT Exemption Regulations

As always, there is always an exception in every law. Classic car MOT exemption is not applicable for those vehicles that have a significant amount of modification or substantial change from their original shape in the last 30 years. 

In general, vehicles may not be most exempt if the following parts have been drastically changed within the last thirty years:

• Vehicle Chassy including any sub-frames.
• Running gear and axles, including the type of method of steering or suspension.
• Any modifications to engines, such as changing cylinders.

Note- This is not an exhaustive list and you should visit the official website and read the full guidance document to know more detailed information.

Do the Changes Apply to All Types of Vehicles?

MOT-exempt is not only for classic cars but all types of vehicles that are over 40 years of age including cars, vans, and motorbikes are not MOT-exempt, provided they haven’t drastically modified.

However, there are still some vehicles that are not MOT-exempted even if they cross the 40-year-old mark. These types of vehicles are trucks, lorries, and other large good vehicles that still require an annual MOT. The same rules apply to kit cars and self-build vehicles.

What If the Car Has Only Recently Reached 40 Years?

The 40-year MOT exemption is a rolling law that means as your vehicle surpasses the 40-year mark your vehicle is exempt from MOT and doesn’t require annual roadworthy inspection. For example, if your motorbike was first registered on 31 December 1983, it will officially become MOT exempt on 1 January 2024.

How do I declare my vehicle as MOT-Exempt?

You need to complete a V112 form, which you can easily find online or at your nearest local post office. This form is named ‘Declaration of Exemption from MOT’ and you must complete this form to declare your car as MOT-exempt. 

If you have multiple cars that cross the 40-year mark then you need to fill out a separate form for each car.

Some of the details you need to have to complete the form are your vehicle tax reminder and the log book. However, For Northern Ireland residents you will need an insurance certificate or cover note as well to fill the V112 form. 

Risks of Making More Cars MOT-Exempt

Risks associated with the law change haven’t gone unnoticed by people. More than 2,000 members of the public took in a government consultation for the scheme. 56% of people disagree with the rule change and said that vehicles traveling on public roads should have an annual MOT check.

What Was the Outcome of the Consultation?

In response to the members, the DFT stated that for more than 40 years vehicles have often been kept in good condition by their owners and don’t require for MOT check. They added the test, which cost a maximum of £54.85 for regular vehicles with up to eight seats (correct as of 2023), is no longer relevant to many of these older cars.

The consultation also proposed a basic biennial test for vehicle models that fell out of the 40-year mark. This includes checking the vehicle’s identity and checking the condition of important components such as steering, engine, and brakes. However, this was not made into legislation and owners may voluntarily MOT their vehicle if they feel necessary.

Conclusion

Ensure your classic car or modern car is in top condition with help from our experienced testers and mechanics in Stoke and Trent. We are familiar with historic cars of all types and understand how to keep them at roadworthy quality. If you are planning to do your vehicle MOT in Stoke On Trent then book an appointment now with us.

Sponsor Ads

• Ad Space Available - Rent it Now!

Report this Page

Created on Jan 31st 2024 06:37. Viewed 343 times.

Share on APSense

Comments