Historic Cars Could Be Exempt from Annual MOT

As a result of a consultation between Transport Minister Mike Penning and members of the All Party Parliamentary Historic Vehicles Group, the requirement to have an annual MOT test for all pre-war cars could be dropped. This is good news for classic car collectors who only want to use their vintage vehicles at parades or static displays.

“Accidents involving historic vehicles are extremely rare and the majority of owners are meticulous in keeping their vehicles in good condition. Having to have an annual MOT test for a vehicle which may only travel 100 miles in a year is an unnecessary bureaucratic hurdle,” stated Conservative MP for East Yorkshire Greg Knight, who is the Parliamentary group chairman.

Transport Minister Mike Penning said he thinks the MOT is important in ensuring cars are safe for use on British roads, but the annual test might not have the “intended effect”. As a result, he is analyzing the situation and could exempt older historic and classic vehicles from the MOT test. “These vehicles are treasured by their owners who want to ensure they are well maintained, and in most cases they use them irregularly. I have asked my officials to look at the evidence on this issue and we will carry out a full consultation to allow interested groups to submit views,” Penning said.

Knight added that, even if the older vehicles would be exempted from the MOT, their owners would still have the legal obligation of ensuring that they are safe, roadworthy and in good driving condition. "The Minister has made it clear that the exemption will not relate to historic vehicles that are used commercially,” he added.