Government rules first MoT test to take place after three years

The Government has ruled that the first MOT will remain at three years from registration. Every subsequent MOT will also continue to be taken once every year.

Launched in January 2023, the consultation sought views to ensure roadworthiness checks continue to balance the cost to motorists, road safety, advances in vehicle technology, and tackling vehicle emissions.

To ensure MOTs are fit for the future, the Government will further investigate how to better monitor diesel vehicle emissions through the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

This will include whether testing should do more to ensure that diesel vehicles comply with emissions regulations.

Roads Minister Guy Opperman said: “We have listened to drivers and industry, and keeping MOTs in their current form shows once again that we are on the side of motorists.

“By offering clarity on MOT tests, alongside our recent street works consultation and unprecedented £8.3bn to resurface roads, we are helping motorists drive with peace of mind and ensuring Britain’s roads continue to be some of the safest in the world.”

With the constantly improving technology of modern-day cars and Electric Vehicles (EVs), the Department will continue to work closely with industry stakeholders and drivers to establish a programme of longer term, reform for MOTs.

To ensure they remain fit for the future, the Government is exploring a more effective test for diesel particulate emissions, whether further improvements could be made to the MOT for electric vehicles and the transfer of some larger zero-emissions vans to more standard, car-style MOT testing.

Neil Barlow, Head of Vehicle Policy at DVSA, said: “Ensuring the MOT remains fit for the future is a key part of DVSA’s work, and getting ready for new technology will help keep Britain’s roads safe.

“We hope this positive news will provide some certainty for garages to enable the investment in new technologies that could be needed to keep the MOT at the forefront of road safety and the environment.”

DfT will also monitor technological developments that could require an altered MOT, such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Government and the automotive industry have worked together to ensure the UK has some of the world’s safest roads. The decision to retain the existing MOT system is the right one, helping maintain this proud record and giving drivers confidence in car and van roadworthiness.

“With vehicle technology continuing to evolve at pace in terms of both safety and environmental performance, we will maintain this collaboration with Government and other stakeholders so that the MOT continues to be fit for purpose, helping Britain improve what is already a strong road safety record.”