UK MOT Rules During Lockdown

With the UK navigating through national lockdowns, a pressing question for many vehicle owners is what happens when their MOT due date is fast approaching. This article aims to provide clarity on MOT testing procedures during the current restrictions, focusing on whether extensions are granted and what safety measures are being implemented to ensure you can keep your vehicle both legal and safe to drive.

Can I Get My Vehicle an MOT During the Latest Lockdown?

The good news is that the Government has confirmed that MOT test centres are permitted to remain open across the United Kingdom during the latest lockdown. This means you can still book and complete your vehicle's MOT test as usual. However, it's crucial to understand that this exemption primarily applies to the MOT test itself. Non-essential vehicle servicing and general maintenance might not be considered a valid reason to break the 'stay at home' guidelines currently in effect. For specific scenarios, it's always advisable to check the latest government advice or contact your local test centre.

For those considering a new vehicle, it's worth noting that brand new commercial vehicles typically do not require an MOT for the first three years. If your current vehicle is aging and potentially unsafe, leasing a new vehicle might still be an option during the lockdown period, provided you adhere to all relevant regulations.

What Safety Measures Are MOT Test Centres Expected to Follow?

To ensure the safety of both customers and staff, the Government, through the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), has released specific guidelines for MOT test centres. These measures are designed to minimise the risk of transmission while allowing essential testing to continue. Key safety protocols include:

• Face Coverings: Customers and staff are generally required to wear face coverings in all indoor public areas within the test centre, unless they have a valid medical or other reasonable excuse not to.
• Social Distancing: Maintaining social distancing is paramount at all times. This involves keeping a physical distance of at least 2 metres (approximately 6 feet) from others.
• Sanitation: Test centres are expected to have hand sanitising facilities available for both staff and customers. High-touch surfaces should be regularly cleaned and disinfected.
• Ventilation: Where possible, indoor areas should be well-ventilated to improve air quality.

It is highly recommended that customers familiarise themselves with the full guidelines provided by the DVSA, which can usually be found on their official website, to understand their responsibilities and what to expect.

Can I Watch the MOT Test or Wait for It to Be Completed at the Garage?

The ability for customers to wait at the test centre or observe the MOT test depends on the individual centre's ability to implement social distancing measures effectively. Test centres have been advised that if they can safely accommodate customers while adhering to social distancing, they may allow them to wait in reception areas or view the testing process. However, the final decision rests with the test centre. If they deem it safer to restrict customer access to these areas, they are within their rights to do so. It's best to call ahead to confirm the specific arrangements at your chosen test centre.

Where Can I Get My MOT Certificate?

In line with current regulations, MOT test centres are generally not permitted to print MOT certificates for customers unless there is a specific, documented reason for the customer to require a physical copy. This is an effort to reduce unnecessary contact and paper usage. You can easily access and print your MOT certificate from the comfort of your home. Furthermore, you can check your vehicle's MOT history, including any exemptions or test results, on the official UK Government website. Regularly checking this portal is a good way to stay informed about your vehicle's status.

Can I Drive My Vehicle If It Hasn't Got an MOT?

This is a critical point. Even if your MOT expiry date was extended during a previous lockdown, it is imperative that your vehicle remains safe to drive at all times. Driving a vehicle that is not roadworthy can have serious consequences. You can face a substantial fine of up to £2,500, a driving ban, and accumulate 3 penalty points on your licence if you are caught driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition. Therefore, if you suspect any issues with your vehicle, it is essential to take it to the nearest open garage for repairs. The Government has made provisions for garages to remain open to carry out necessary repairs, even during lockdown periods, to ensure vehicle safety.

It is illegal to drive your vehicle if its MOT has expired, with very limited exceptions. The only circumstances under which you can legally drive without a current MOT certificate are if you are travelling directly to a pre-booked MOT test appointment or to a garage for pre-arranged repairs that are necessary to make the vehicle roadworthy. Driving for any other reason without a valid MOT is an offence and can lead to prosecution.

Understanding MOT Extensions: A Look Back

It's important to distinguish between current regulations and those that were in place during the initial stages of the pandemic. Previously, during the first UK national lockdown in March 2020, the Government introduced a temporary 6-month MOT exemption for vehicles whose MOT was due to expire after March 30th, 2020. This meant that if your MOT was due, for example, on April 3rd, 2020, it would be automatically extended by six months to October 3rd, 2020. During this period, vehicle owners were still legally required to keep their vehicles in a roadworthy condition.

Checking your MOT history online was the recommended method to verify these exemptions, as paper certificates were not issued. It was advised to keep checking the government portal as updates might not have been immediate.

What If My MOT Was Due Before the 30th March 2020 & My Vehicle Failed?

For vehicles that were due for an MOT before the March 30th, 2020 deadline and subsequently failed the test, the automatic 6-month extension did not apply. In such cases, the vehicle would need to pass an MOT test before it could be legally driven on the road. The good news was that MOT centres and garages were permitted to remain open to facilitate these essential tests and repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Will my MOT expiry date be automatically extended due to the current lockdown?
No, unlike the initial lockdown in March 2020, there are currently no automatic 6-month extensions being granted for MOT expiry dates. You must get your MOT test done by the original due date if your vehicle requires it.

Q2: Can I still get my vehicle's MOT done during a national lockdown?
Yes, MOT test centres are allowed to remain open during national lockdowns. You can book an appointment for your MOT test.

Q3: What if my MOT has expired? Can I still drive?
No, you cannot drive your vehicle if its MOT has expired, unless you are driving it directly to a pre-booked MOT test or to a garage for essential repairs to make it roadworthy. Driving without a valid MOT for other reasons is illegal.

Q4: Are there any safety measures I need to be aware of at the MOT test centre?
Yes, expect to see measures such as mandatory face coverings (unless exempt), social distancing requirements, and enhanced cleaning protocols. It's advisable to check the specific centre's policies beforehand.

Q5: Can I wait for my MOT to be completed at the garage?
This depends on the test centre's ability to implement social distancing. Some may allow it, while others might request you to leave the vehicle. It's best to confirm with the test centre when booking.

Keeping Your Vehicle Safe and Legal

Even when restrictions are in place, the responsibility for keeping your vehicle roadworthy and legally compliant remains with the owner. Ensure you are aware of your MOT expiry date and book your test in advance. If your vehicle requires repairs, don't delay, as garages are open to assist. Prioritising your vehicle's safety is not only a legal requirement but also crucial for your own well-being and that of other road users. Always refer to the latest official guidance from the DVSA for the most up-to-date information.

Key Takeaways:

• MOT test centres remain open during lockdowns.
• No automatic MOT extensions are currently being offered.
• You must not drive a vehicle with an expired MOT, except for a pre-booked test or essential repairs.
• Adhere to all safety guidelines at test centres.
• Regularly check your vehicle's MOT status online.