Mandatory MOT tests to be reintroduced

With COVID-19 restrictions beginning to ease in England, the government has announced its plan to ensure vehicles are roadworthy

MOT test sign

AS lockdown restrictions begin to ease, the government Roads Minister, Baroness Vere, has announced the plan to help ensure vehicles are roadworthy.

Due to the Coronavirus outbreak, drivers and riders were granted a six-month exemption from MOT testing to try and help halt the spread of the virus.

the MOT test is to resume from 1st August 

The first step is to reintroduce mandatory MOTs has now begun, with the Roads Minister today confirming that from the 1st August, MOTs will begin for cars, motorcycles, and vans.

The announcement means all road users who’s vehicle is due for an MOT test from 1st August will be required to get a test certificate to continue driving their vehicle.

Drivers with an MOT due date before 1 August will still receive a 6-month exemption from testing. However, all vehicles must continue to be properly maintained and kept in a roadworthy condition, and people are able to voluntarily get their MOT sooner should they wish, even if they are exempt from the legal requirement. Motorists can be prosecuted for driving an unsafe vehicle.

Roads Minister 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 1 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.”

To help deal with a potential influx of MOT requests, testing stations have also been issued with advice on how to keep their customers and staff safe from the 1st August onwards.