The exemptions
| Vehicle | Condition |
|---|---|
| Historic vehicles | Built or first registered more than 40 years ago, and no substantial changes |
| Electric goods vehicles | Registered before 1 March 2015 |
| Tractors | Exempt |
| Vehicles under the first-MOT age | No MOT until they reach the age in the fee table (3 years for most cars) |
Other exempt vehicle types are listed on the V112 exemption form linked from GOV.UK.
Exempt does not mean unchecked
An exempt vehicle must still be kept roadworthy. You can still choose to have a voluntary MOT at any authorised MOT test centre as an independent check of its condition.
Continue on GOV.UK
These official services are where you actually do it:
Frequently asked questions
Do classic cars need an MOT?
Not if the vehicle was built or first registered more than 40 years ago and has not been substantially changed. Because the 40 years count back from today, more cars qualify every year.
What counts as a substantial change?
GOV.UK gives examples such as replacing the chassis, body, axles or engine in a way that changes how the vehicle works.
Do I need to tell anyone my vehicle is exempt?
For some exempt vehicles you complete form V112 (the MOT exemption declaration) when you tax the vehicle or apply for tax exemption.
Do lorries and buses need an MOT?
They are not exempt: lorries, buses and trailers have an annual test instead of an MOT.
Related guides
MOT cost
Maximum fee £54.85 for a car, £29.65 for a motorcycle.
When is my MOT due?
First MOT at 3 years, and the earliest date to test.
MOT retest rules
When the retest is free and when you pay again.
Dangerous, major and minor
What each result means for driving.
Driving without an MOT
Fines up to £1,000, and the two exceptions.
MOT classes explained
Class 1 to 7, and which centres test each.
Find an MOT centre
Official sources consulted: GOV.UK vehicles exempt from MOT · GOV.UK historic vehicles. MOT Test Centres is independent and not part of the DVSA or GOV.UK; fees and rules can change, so confirm on GOV.UK.