Government cuts MOT red tape on classic cars

Roads Minister Mike Penning has announced that classic vehicles will be exempted from the MoT test. According to details released by the Department for Transport on 21 May, vehicles manufactured before 1960 will be exempted from the MoT test from 18 November 2012.

Government figures show that pre-1960 licensed vehicles make up about 0.6 per cent of the total number of licensed vehicles in Great Britain, but are involved in just 0.03 per cent of road casualties and accidents. In addition the initial MoT test failure rate declines by the age of vehicle after the vehicle is 13 years old.

The decision is said to be based on the fact that the current requirement to undergo an MoT test goes over and above the obligations set out in European legislation. It also follows a public consultation which reportedly showed high levels of support for the proposals. Owners of affected vehicles will still be able to take exempt vehicles for an MoT on a voluntary basis.

Mike Penning said: “We are committed to cutting out red tape which costs motorists money without providing significant overall benefits. Owners of classic cars and motorbikes tend to be enthusiasts who maintain their vehicles well – they don’t need to be told to look after them, they’re out there in all weathers checking the condition of the engine, tyres and bodywork.

“Owners of classic vehicles will still be legally required to ensure that they are safe and in a proper condition to be on the road but scrapping the MoT test for these vehicles will save motorists money.”