Everything You Need to Know About: MOT Tests

MOT tests are mandatory for the majority of British road users. If you own a car and it is more than three years old, then you will need to consider when the next one will be due. Read on to find out everything you need to know about this standard test.

MOTs Are Needed Throughout the UK

Unlike some matters which are devolved, the MOT test is a UK-wide testing regime that is a requirement you live in any UK city; London, Bristol, Edinburgh or Dublin. In places like the Isle of Man, however, there is not an MOT requirement. That said, the basic roadworthiness examination needed there isn't that different from a standard MOT. If your car has an MOT due in the coming months, it's worth thinking about booking your MOT test in Stirling at Fife Autocentre or find a suitable testing centre close to you.

Some Vehicles Are MOT-Exempt

If your car was registered 40 years or more ago, then it can qualify for an official exemption. This is because vehicles of this age are deemed to be vintage models. However, if you have made any substantial alterations to your vintage car over the years, then it won't quality for an exempted status and will still need to be put through its MOT annually if you want to drive it on the public road. Obtain a V112 exemption form if you own a qualifying car.

You Can Get MOT Reminders

MOT reminders are sent out by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) if you sign up for this service. This will mean that the DVSA will send you an official notification that your MOT is due one month before the current one runs out. That's quite handy if you are a forgetful person. Remember that you can put your car through an MOT one month before the cut-off point without losing any time on the valid period. This is good to know if you have a holiday coming up that might coincide with your MOT due date, for example.

MOT Updates

The MOT test hasn't remained the same since it first came in back in 1960. Nowadays, cars can fail for a much wider variety of reasons than before. A surprising number of cars fail their MOT because of faulty or illegal license plates and other simple matters like worn-out wiper blades so you can take straightforward steps to ensure your car passes without being a qualified mechanic.