Updated MOT Exemption Rules

[peak4Participant @peak4]

As I read it, the rules for MOT exemption were changed on the 10th March 2026.
I’ve seen little in the press, barring GB News, and I’ve certainly received nothing via mail, email, or text, even though registered, and I’ve previously claimed exemption for several vehicles.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/historic-classic-vehicles-mot-exemption-criteria/historic-classic-vehicles-mot-exemption-criteria–2

It’s possible that anyone now driving around in a modified, or kit car, thinking they have an exemption, may be leaving themselves open to prosecution.

Bill

[Michael GilliganParticipant @michaelgilligan61133]

The plot thickens, Bill

I just tried your link, and got ‘page not found’

But then I used the search facility:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/historic-classic-vehicles-mot-exemption-criteria/historic-classic-vehicles-mot-exemption-criteria–2

… which worked [until I posted the link here]

MichaelG.
[ confused ]

[Phil LinghamParticipant @phillingham79132]

As it happens I “Taxed” my 1980 Suzuki GS1000S yesterday and noticed the MOT exemption rules had been beefed up somewhat with additional guidance regarding substantial changes.

Your vehicle must have an MOT if it:

has been substantially changed
is a type or model of vehicle still in production
is a large vehicle being used commercially
has a registration number with a ‘Q’ prefix
is a kit car constructed from components from different makes or models
is a reconstructed classic vehicle (as defined by DVLA)
is a kit conversion where a kit body, chassis or monocoque is added to an existing vehicle, or vice versa

In general, a vehicle alteration is a ‘substantial change’ if the technical characteristics of the main components have changed.

The main components are the:

chassis
monocoque bodyshell
axles and running gear
engine
There are exceptions to that do not count as substantial changes to the main components.

My understanding was that kit cars have always been required to have an MOT?

I also have a Triton (Norton frame / Triumph engine for the uninitiated) that was first registered in 1966 – that might be an interesting conversation whether it has substantially changed as it still carries the same chassis and engine numbers as it did in 1966????

[JAParticipant @ja]

I still have two bikes. One is a Matchless fitted with an AJS engine. The two makes were identical with everything being interchangeable.

Oh what fun!

JA

[peak4Participant @peak4]

Well that’s interesting, the link in my browser address bar has two hyphens at the end and works fine when I cut and paste it into a new tab.
I’ll paste it below>

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/historic-classic-vehicles-mot-exemption-criteria/historic-classic-vehicles-mot-exemption-criteria–2

At the moment in the preview pane, it’s still showing OK; screenshot at bottom.

This is what I copied>

Lets see what happens when I submit; screenshot pre submit below

Edit; yes, the forum software has deleted one of the hyphens.

Bill

[old martParticipant @oldmart]

I have only just been told that some larger trailers have to have MOT tests, so owners of classic cars who don’t drive them to shows have something extra to think about.

[Nick Clarke 3Participant @nickclarke3]

Slightly sideways but looking for a second hand Land Rover on the auction site – of two that claimed to be Historic so MOT exempt, neither had actually been registered as such and one had a Daihatsu engine and another a Discovery 5 cylinder diesel.

Perhaps part of the reason for the sales and caveat emptor I think!

[old mart]

On old mart Said:

I have only just been told that some larger trailers have to have MOT tests, so owners of classic cars who don’t drive them to shows have something extra to think about.

Only if your trailer has a loaded weight over 3500Kg. Most folk don’t go over that limit and in fact can’t on an ordinary car licence, you need a C licence or higher.

[Author]

Posts