MOT Exemption

For most of us, an MOT is a yearly occurrence to ensure our cars are safe and road legal. However, did you know that certain vehicles can actually be exempt from needing an MOT? In this article, we will explain the grounds for MOT exemption, how to check if your car is exempt, and the process behind applying for an MOT exemption certificate.

 

Summary 

If your car is older than 40 years old, it is exempt from needing an MOT. However, if the car is older than 40 years old and has had significant alterations, the car will need to be tested. You will need to declare its Vehicle of Historic Interest (VHI) status when you complete the V112 Form. You can do this online.

 

What Vehicles Are Exempt From MOTs? 

Cars older than 40 years old do not need an MOT. This new legislation was introduced in May 2018, for cars registered before May 1978. Classic car enthusiasts will be pleased to know that it is a rolling date, so if you have a car that was registered on August 1st, 1982, it will now be exempt.  If this is the case for your classic car, you will have to declare it a Vehicle of Historic Interest. You must do this when you are applying for your Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax exemption). However, if you have made ‘substantial changes’ to the car, it may not pass the exemption criteria.

Other vehicles that are exempt from needing an MOT are tractors and goods vehicles powered by electricity and registered before 1 March 2015. Lorries, buses and trailers do not need a traditional MOT but instead have an ‘annual vehicle test’.

 

 

What Counts As A Substantial Change?

If your car has had alterations to the technical and main components in the last thirty years, you may not be eligible for MOT exemption. Of course, it would be near impossible to keep a car running in perfect condition for 40 years without the occasional repair, so here is the list of criteria that counts as a ‘substantial change’. 

1. Alteration to the suspension or steering of the vehicle, including the axles and running gear 
2. A difference in numbers of engine cylinders in comparison to the original number
3. Chassis of the car, but replacements of the same pattern as the original are not considered a substantial change 
4. The Monocoque body shell, or ‘structural skin’ of the car, including any sub-frames 

It also counts as a ‘substantial change’ if the car has been given a ‘Q’ registration number -this is when the vehicle’s age or identity is in doubt. As the age of the vehicle can not be determined, it can not qualify for MOT exemption. If your vehicle is a ‘kit car’, assembled from components from different makes and models of vehicles, a kit conversion or a reconstructed classic vehicle (as defined under DVLA guidance), it is not eligible for MOT exemption.

 

What Doesn’t Count As A Substantial Change?

If the changes have been made with the purpose to improve safety or are using original replacement parts or those of the same design, these are not considered substantial changes. These include:

1. Any parts bought to repair the car where the original versions of the part are no longer in production or available 
2. A bodyshell with the same design as the original when the vehicle was in production
3. Changes to the axles and running gear, only in the case where they have been changed on the grounds of improving efficiency, safety, or environmental performance. 

 

How Do I Declare MOT Exemption? 

You can’t just stop taking your vehicle for its MOT, you have to declare it exempt. You can do this by going to the GOV website and filling out the V112 Form. The form is simple, you just need your vehicle registration number, your full name and signature, and the understanding that you are correctly registering your vehicle as MOT exempt.

 

What Is Vehicle Excise Duty Exemption?

Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) is more commonly known as ‘road tax’ and has to be paid by most vehicle owners. However, once your car reaches its 40th birthday and is exempt from having its MOT, it is also eligible for VED exemption. It should be noted it is still a requirement to have your vehicle taxed - VED exemption just means you don’t have to pay. 

Similar to the MOT exemption, you must apply for a vehicle tax exemption. You can’t do this one online, you’ll have to apply at a Post Office - you’ll need to take your vehicle's logbook, your vehicle tax reminder letter (if you have one), and the V112 to prove your car is exempt from an MOT. 

The Post Office will then send your logbook to the DVLA, who will then send you an updated logbook stating your VED exemption. You’ll receive a letter once your tax is due to expire - you will not have to pay, but you still need to have your vehicle taxed by law. You could face an £80 fine if you do not tax your vehicle on time.

 

Can I Still Get An MOT?

Regardless of the fact your classic car is exempt from needing an MOT, it is still your responsibility to ensure it is safe and roadworthy. You can do this by referring to the checks on an MOT checklist. 

You can still take your car for an MOT, just for peace of mind that your car is running as safely and efficiently as possible.

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