Home Menu Search

Changes to MOT Test Frequency

25 January 2024

The UK Government has confirmed that the first MOT test will remain at three years for now after a consultation revealed widespread condemnation.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has also committed to maintaining annual testing after the first MOT, rather than switching to every other year, but has said it will continue to work closely with industry stakeholders and drivers to establish a programme of longer-term reform for MOTs.

The major shake-up of the MOT regime for cars, vans and motorcycles was proposed in January 2023, accompanied by the consultation from the DfT and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), which highlighted technological advancements such as hybrid, electric and self-drive vehicles. However, the move was criticised by the road safety community  by many in the automotive sector, who pointed out that the first MOT and the annual testing thereafter play a crucial role in ensuring that vehicles on our roads are safe and well-maintained.

 

Related news, events and information

Proposed changes to make MOTs fit for the future

18 January 2023 – The Department for Transport has launched a public consultation on the future of MOTs in Great Britain...

MOT Review

5 August 2011 – Fleets will have the chance to comment on any changes to the MOT test once the Government launches its official...

A vehicle's first MOT test to remain at 3 years.

19 January 2018 – The Department for Transport (DfT) announced the result of their consultation to extend a vehicle's first MOT...

Government to launch MOT review

10 August 2010 – The government is to launch a comprehensive review of MOT testing for cars and commercial vehicles later this...

Behavioural insights - the impact of changing current MOT requirements

28 February 2024 – This TRL report details the work and findings of the behavioural insights investigation undertaken as part of a...

Proposals to extend new vehicle's first MOT from 3 years to 4 years

24 January 2017 – The Department for Transport is seeking views on whether the age a vehicle gets its first MOT should be...

UK Government remains committed to developing self-driving vehicles on British roads

8 April 2018 – The UK Department for Transport (DfT) told Fleet News that safety remained paramount to UK tests , which is...

Simple checks and maintenance could help drivers avoid MOT failures

27 February 2017 – Story from Road Safety GB. Nearly 50% of all faults found on MOTs could be avoided by carrying out regular,...

Overhaul of Driver Training and Testing

16 March 2007 – RoadSafe welcomes the recent announcement by UK DfT of a fundamental overhaul of driver training and testing...