Do classic cars need an MOT test?

Wednesday 11th August 2021

No – classic cars do not require an MOT test by law, and they are exempt from this DVSA annually testing. Read on to find out more about classic car MOT exemptions, as well as which other vehicles are exempt – and how to keep your historic vehicle maintained.

Classic car MOTs

Classic cars, also known as historical vehicles, are generally exempt from MOT testing in the UK. This is if they fit in the following categories:

• The vehicle was built or registered over 40 years ago
• The vehicle has not had any ‘significant changes’ in the last 30 years
• The vehicle has been previously exempt, having been registered before 1960

If the historic vehicle fits into these specifications, it’s likely it will not require an annual MOT test. Find out more information about classic car MOT exemptions from our dedicated guide.

Which other vehicles are exempt from MOT tests?

As well as classic cars, there are also a number of other vehicles that are exempt from MOT testing. This includes:

• Large vehicles – large goods vehicles (defined as vehicles more than 3.5 tonnes), buses, and public service vehicles
• Agricultural vehicles – agricultural vehicles, such as tractors, are also exempt from MOT tests
• Slow maximum speed vehicles – vehicles which have a maximum speed limit of 15mph are also exempt
• Trams – as a road-based vehicle, the tram is also a vehicle with does not need an MOT test
• Vehicles which are not yet 3 years old – of course, it’s also important to note that any vehicles which were registered less than 3 years ago do not need an MOT until their 3rd birthday. Learn more about your vehicle’s first MOT.

A full list of vehicles which are exempt from MOT tests can be found via the V112 document from GOV.uk.

How to keep your classic car maintained

Some often query that without having a regular MOT test, how should you keep your classic car properly maintained?

• Clean it – washing the exterior of the car, the interior (including vacuuming the carpets and cabin floor), the wheels and tyres, and buffing and polishing as often as possible.
• Regular servicing – by booking your classic car in for regular car servicing, this avoids minor issues turning into major issues, and can lead to you saving money down the line. Servicing tests your vehicle against the vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines, meaning it will be safe on the roads.
• Repair dents, scrapes and scuffs – keep your classic vehicle properly maintained by ensuring any dents or scrapes are repaired immediately, in order to combat rusting or excessive work required on the bodywork of your vehicle.

Find out more information about the services we offer from your local Formula One Autocentre today.