The Department for Transport (DfT) has suggested a potential shift following a recent public consultation.
View pictures in App save up to 80% data.
Motorists across the UK are being alerted that they will need to obtain MOTs in order to keep their vehicles on the road. At present, classic cars that are over 40 years old are not required to undergo the annual safety check, provided they remain in their original condition without major modifications.
A public consultation conducted by the Department for Transport (DfT) suggested a shift in perspective, revealing that more than 40 percent of respondents support the implementation of mandatory safety inspections for vintage cars. Among the 1,083 replies, 36 percent felt that no changes were necessary, while 41 percent endorsed the idea of instituting comprehensive or age-appropriate MOTs for classic and historic automobiles.
Eighteen percent of respondents advocate for inspections akin to a comprehensive MOT for vintage vehicles. One individual from the survey remarked: "Indeed, a 'sympathetic' MOT that considers age and condition would be beneficial, especially for classic cars that see regular use."
Additionally, a small percentage of 10 percent indicated that only a fundamental safety inspection should be conducted to verify the vehicle's roadworthiness in the UK.
An extra eight percent expressed support for MOT-style assessments tailored to the age of vehicles; for example, some cars may be exempt from emissions testing. Meanwhile, five percent had alternative opinions. While no conclusions have been reached yet, indications suggest that these beloved classic cars may be required to comply with contemporary testing standards down the line.
There have been requests for random inspections whenever a vehicle is driven or following major repair work. A representative from the Government told the Telegraph that details regarding any upcoming safety testing initiatives for classic cars will be disclosed in the near future.
"The safety of our roadways is our top concern, and it is the responsibility of all vehicle owners to make sure their cars comply with road safety and environmental regulations," stated the spokesperson. "Although vintage cars are exempt from MOT testing, there are several safety inspections that we advise owners to perform."
Car owners are required to book an MOT test once a year.
The Ministry of Transport examination guarantees that vehicles comply with the required road safety and environmental regulations. If your MOT certificate does not show any hazardous defects, you are allowed to drive your car to a garage without a valid MOT.
Nonetheless, driving your vehicle in any other location is illegal. The Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC) has previously suggested that classic cars must pass specific safety inspections.
Experts have advised that vehicles undergoing "significant restoration or repair" should be inspected by qualified mechanics prior to being taken on public roads. In a communication with the DVLA, the FBHVC noted: "There are situations, such as after extensive restoration or repairs, where a special safety assessment may be necessary. This could involve a more detailed examination than the standard MOT, possibly necessitating some disassembly to ensure comprehensive access to all vehicle components."
The vehicle, however, should be assessed according to the technical standards that were in place at the time of its original manufacture, in accordance with the MOT regulations.
