Pillar Guide

MOT Requirements by Vehicle Type: Complete Guide

Comprehensive guide to MOT requirements for all vehicle types. Learn what's required for cars, motorcycles, vans, HGVs, and special vehicles in the UK.

Published: December 7, 2025
16 min read

Understanding MOT Requirements by Vehicle Type

MOT requirements vary significantly depending on your vehicle type, age, and use. Understanding exactly what applies to your specific vehicle ensures legal compliance and helps you prepare appropriately for testing.

This comprehensive guide covers MOT requirements for every vehicle category in the UK, from standard cars and motorcycles to commercial vehicles, motorhomes, and special purpose vehicles.

General MOT Requirements (All Vehicles)

Regardless of vehicle type, certain fundamental MOT requirements apply universally:

Age Requirements

Three-Year Rule (Most Vehicles):

  • First MOT required 3 years after first registration date
  • Annual testing thereafter
  • Applies to: cars, motorcycles, vans under 3,500kg, motor caravans

One-Year Rule (Heavy Vehicles):

  • First MOT required 12 months after first registration
  • Annual testing thereafter
  • Applies to: vehicles over 3,500kg, passenger vehicles with 9+ seats

Exemptions:

  • Vehicles over 40 years old (historic vehicle exemption)
  • Electric goods vehicles used under specific conditions
  • Steam-powered vehicles
  • Invalid carriages under 306kg

Test Frequency

Annual Testing: Once a vehicle requires its first MOT, testing continues every 12 months without exception.

Early Testing Benefit: Test up to one month (minus a day) before expiry without losing time. New certificate dated from current expiry, not test date.

Where to Test

Approved Test Centres Only:

  • Must be DVSA-authorized for your vehicle class
  • Display authorization number
  • Have qualified examiners
  • Maintain proper equipment

Vehicle Class Matching: Test centre must be authorized for your specific vehicle class. Not all centres test all vehicle types.

Cars (Class 4 Vehicles)

What Qualifies as Class 4

Standard Passenger Cars:

  • Up to 8 passenger seats
  • Maximum weight up to 3,000kg (design weight)
  • Standard four-wheeled vehicles
  • Includes estate cars, hatchbacks, saloons

Also Included:

  • Light commercial vehicles (vans) up to 3,000kg
  • Motor caravans up to 3,000kg
  • Ambulances
  • Dual-purpose vehicles (like pickup trucks under 3,000kg)

First MOT Requirement

Timing: 3 years after date of first registration

Example:

  • Registered: 10 May 2022
  • First MOT due: 9 May 2025
  • Subsequent MOTs: Annual from 2025

Test Components for Cars

Complete Inspection Covers:

1. Lighting System:

  • Headlights (main and dipped beam)
  • Front and rear position lights (sidelights)
  • Direction indicators
  • Hazard warning lights
  • Stop lamps (brake lights)
  • Rear registration plate lamp
  • Front and rear fog lamps (if fitted)
  • Reversing lamps (if fitted)

2. Steering and Suspension:

  • Steering control (wheel, column, linkage)
  • Power steering system
  • Suspension shock absorbers
  • Suspension springs and mountings
  • Suspension linkages and joints
  • Wheel bearings
  • Front and rear axles

3. Braking System:

  • Service brake (foot brake) performance
  • Secondary brake (handbrake) performance
  • Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
  • Brake pedal and lever
  • Brake fluid condition and level
  • Brake pipes and hoses
  • Brake calipers and discs/drums
  • Brake pads and shoes

4. Tyres and Wheels:

  • Tyre tread depth (minimum 1.6mm)
  • Tyre condition
  • Tyre type and compatibility
  • Wheel condition
  • Wheel nuts and fixings

5. Seat Belts and Seats:

  • Seat belt condition and operation
  • Seat belt mountings
  • Seat security
  • Seat condition

6. Bodywork and Structure:

  • Body condition
  • Doors and bonnet
  • Wings and panels
  • Corrosion assessment
  • Load security (vans)

7. Exhaust and Emissions:

  • Exhaust system condition and security
  • Emissions levels (CO, HC, smoke)
  • Catalytic converter presence
  • Diesel particulate filter (if fitted)

8. Fuel System:

  • Fuel tank security
  • Fuel cap and filler
  • Fuel pipes
  • Fuel leaks

9. Driver's View of Road:

  • Windscreen condition
  • Windows
  • Mirrors
  • Windscreen wipers
  • Windscreen washers

10. Additional Items:

  • Horn
  • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
  • Registration plates
  • Speedometer
  • Instruments and warning lights

Maximum Test Fee

Cars: £54.85 maximum

  • Test centres can charge less
  • Typical promotional prices: £25-40
  • Compare local prices before booking

Special Considerations for Cars

Modified Vehicles:

  • Must still meet original safety standards
  • Modifications may affect class
  • Extensive modifications may require IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) instead

Electric Vehicles:

  • Same MOT requirements as petrol/diesel
  • No emissions test
  • Battery and electrical systems checked for safety
  • High voltage warnings must be present

Hybrid Vehicles:

  • Tested as petrol or diesel (depending on primary fuel)
  • Emissions tested
  • Electric motor components checked for safety

Motorcycles (Class 1 and Class 2)

Classification

Class 1: Motorcycles up to 200cc Class 2: Motorcycles over 200cc

Includes:

  • Solo motorcycles
  • Motorcycles with sidecars
  • Motor tricycles over 50cc
  • Quadricycles (some models)

Exempt: Motorcycles and tricycles under 50cc

First MOT Requirement

Timing: 3 years after first registration

Example:

  • Registered: 15 March 2022
  • First MOT due: 14 March 2025

Test Components for Motorcycles

Motorcycle-Specific Checks:

1. Steering and Suspension:

  • Steering head bearings
  • Handlebars and controls
  • Front forks and bushes
  • Rear suspension
  • Swinging arm

2. Braking:

  • Front brake efficiency
  • Rear brake efficiency
  • Brake controls (lever/pedal)
  • Brake pipes and hoses
  • Brake discs and pads/drums and shoes
  • ABS (if fitted)

3. Wheels and Tyres:

  • Wheel condition
  • Spoke condition (if applicable)
  • Tyre tread depth (1mm minimum for motorcycles)
  • Tyre condition
  • Wheel bearings

4. Lighting:

  • Headlamp
  • Position lamps
  • Direction indicators
  • Stop lamp
  • Rear reflectors
  • Number plate lamp

5. Exhaust and Emissions:

  • Exhaust system condition
  • Emissions (if applicable)
  • Noise levels
  • Catalytic converter (if fitted)

6. Additional Motorcycle Items:

  • Side stand operation
  • Chain guard (if chain drive)
  • Throttle operation
  • Horn
  • Seat security
  • Registration plate
  • VIN
  • Helmet storage (if fitted)
  • Mirrors (one required)

Maximum Test Fees

Class 1 (up to 200cc): £29.65 maximum Class 2 (over 200cc): £37.80 maximum

Special Motorcycle Considerations

Sidecar-Equipped:

  • Attachment security checked
  • Sidecar wheel and tyre assessed
  • Brake efficiency requirements differ
  • Stability considered

Classic Motorcycles:

  • 40+ years exemption applies
  • Can voluntarily MOT for insurance purposes
  • Same standards if tested

Off-Road Bikes:

  • If road-registered, require MOT
  • Must meet road-legal standards
  • Includes adventure bikes and trail bikes

Vans and Light Commercial Vehicles

Class 4 Vans (Up to 3,000kg)

Specifications:

  • Design gross weight up to 3,000kg
  • Commercial or goods vehicles
  • Maximum 8 passenger seats

MOT Requirements:

  • First MOT: 3 years
  • Frequency: Annual
  • Maximum fee: £54.85
  • Test standards: Same as cars with additional load security checks

Additional Checks for Vans:

  • Load area security
  • Load doors (operation and security)
  • Bulkhead (if fitted)
  • Anchorage points
  • Load restraint provisions (if fitted)

Class 7 Vans (3,000kg to 3,500kg)

Specifications:

  • Design gross weight 3,001kg to 3,500kg
  • Includes larger panel vans and converted vehicles
  • Commercial use vehicles

MOT Requirements:

  • First MOT: 3 years
  • Frequency: Annual
  • Maximum fee: £58.60
  • Additional structural and load security requirements

Enhanced Checks:

  • More rigorous structural examination
  • Load distribution assessment
  • Towing equipment (if fitted)
  • Brake efficiency higher threshold

Special Van Considerations

Converted Vans (Campers):

  • May be tested as Class 4 (motor caravan) if properly converted
  • Requires fixed living accommodation
  • Seats, table, sleeping, cooking facilities
  • May benefit from motor caravan classification

Pickup Trucks:

  • Classification depends on design and use
  • Dual-purpose vehicles often Class 4
  • Weight determines exact class
  • Load bed security assessed

Motor Caravans and Motorhomes

Classification

Class 4 Motor Caravans:

  • Up to 3,000kg design weight
  • Built on van/car chassis
  • Fixed living accommodation
  • Includes: cooking, sleeping, seating facilities

Class 5 Motor Caravans:

  • 3,001kg to 3,500kg
  • Larger coachbuilt motorhomes
  • More rigorous testing standards

Class 7:

  • Over 3,500kg
  • Large American RVs and luxury motorhomes
  • Heavy vehicle standards apply

MOT Requirements

First MOT: 3 years after registration Frequency: Annual Fee: Depends on weight class (£54.85 to £64+)

Motorhome-Specific Checks

Standard Vehicle Checks: All normal car/van requirements plus:

Living Area Assessment:

  • Gas system safety (if accessible during test)
  • Habitation door operation
  • Access steps security
  • Windows and skylights
  • Overcab area (if present)

Additional Equipment:

  • Awning mountings (security)
  • Bike racks and carriers (if fitted)
  • Towing equipment (if fitted)
  • Roof racks and storage

Note: Internal habitation fixtures (cooker, fridge, toilet) not tested - only structural and safety-critical items accessible without entering living area extensively.

Special Considerations

Overweight Plating:

  • If gross weight exceeds class limit, may need re-classification
  • May require annual testing from first registration
  • Professional weight check advisable

Conversions:

  • Must meet DVLA motor caravan definition
  • Requires proper conversion documentation
  • Windows on both sides required
  • Fixed furnishings essential

Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs)

Classification

Vehicles Over 3,500kg:

  • HGV Class vehicles
  • Commercial goods vehicles
  • Large vans and trucks
  • Includes: rigid trucks, articulated lorries, large vans

MOT Requirements

First MOT: 12 months after first registration Frequency: Annual Fee: Varies by class (£64-£200+)

HGV Test Standards

Enhanced Testing:

  • More rigorous than lighter vehicles
  • Specific brake efficiency requirements
  • Load security assessment
  • Tachograph examination (if required)
  • Operator license compliance

Test Locations:

  • Designated HGV testing stations
  • Requires larger facilities
  • Not all test centres equipped
  • May need to travel to suitable facility

Additional HGV Checks

Braking Performance:

  • Higher efficiency requirements
  • Brake balance critical
  • Endurance and fade testing
  • Parking brake performance

Load Security:

  • Anchorage points
  • Load bed condition
  • Curtain sides (if fitted)
  • Tailgate and doors
  • Load restraint systems

Commercial Equipment:

  • Tachograph functionality
  • Speed limiter (if required)
  • Load sensing systems
  • Air systems and connections

Passenger Service Vehicles (PSVs)

Classification

Vehicles with 9+ Passenger Seats:

  • Minibuses
  • Coaches
  • Public service buses
  • School buses
  • Private hire buses

MOT Requirements

First MOT: 12 months after first registration Frequency: Annual Fee: Based on seats and weight

PSV-Specific Requirements

Passenger Safety:

  • All seats secure and safe
  • Seat belt provision
  • Emergency exits operational
  • Interior lighting
  • Passenger grab handles
  • Fire extinguisher (if required)
  • First aid kit (if required)

Additional Standards:

  • Accessibility features (if fitted)
  • Wheelchair restraints (if applicable)
  • Wheelchair lifts/ramps (if fitted)
  • Destination display equipment
  • Bell and communication system

Special Considerations

Operator Compliance:

  • PSV operator license required
  • Regular safety inspections beyond MOT
  • Driver qualification checks
  • Insurance requirements

Converted Vehicles:

  • Must meet PSV standards if carrying 9+ passengers
  • May require different classification
  • Seek specialist advice for conversions

Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles

MOT Requirements

Standard Vehicles: Normal Class 4 requirements Purpose-Built Taxis: May have additional checks

Frequency:

  • First MOT: 3 years (unless local authority specifies earlier)
  • Annual thereafter
  • Some councils require annual from first registration
  • Check local authority requirements

Additional Taxi Checks

Local Authority Requirements (Often Include):

  • More frequent testing (6-monthly common)
  • Additional safety equipment checks
  • Taximeter examination
  • Signage and lighting
  • Interior condition standards
  • Door and window operation

Note: Local authority checks are in addition to MOT, not instead of. Taxi licensing tests often more rigorous than standard MOT.

Agricultural and Special Vehicles

Tractors and Agricultural Vehicles

Road-Registered Tractors:

  • If used on public roads, may require MOT depending on use
  • Complex regulations based on usage
  • Agricultural use exemptions possible

When MOT Required:

  • If used primarily for haulage (not agricultural work)
  • If carrying goods for commercial purposes
  • If design allows road speeds above agricultural limits

Exemptions:

  • Pure agricultural use within farm and between fields
  • Limited road use for agricultural purposes
  • Check DVSA guidance for specific situations

Military Vehicles

Civilian-Owned Military Vehicles:

  • Require MOT if road-registered
  • Tested to HGV or car standards (depending on type)
  • May have unique requirements for military features
  • Modifications must meet safety standards

Works Trucks and Plant

Road-Registered Works Vehicles:

  • Fork-lift trucks (if road-used)
  • Excavators with road registration
  • Tested based on design and weight

Exemptions:

  • Vehicles used solely on private land
  • Short road journeys between work sites may be exempt
  • Complex regulations - seek specialist advice

Historic and Classic Vehicles

40-Year Rolling Exemption

Exemption Criteria:

  • Vehicle first registered or manufactured 40+ years ago
  • Has not been substantially changed in last 30 years
  • Used substantially as originally intended

What "Substantially Changed" Means:

  • Engine replacement with different type
  • Body or chassis change
  • Suspension type modification
  • Steering type alteration
  • Braking system fundamental change

Calculating Exemption

Rolling Date: Exemption date rolls forward each year

  • 2025: Vehicles registered before 1 January 1985 exempt
  • 2026: Vehicles registered before 1 January 1986 exempt

Registration vs Manufacture:

  • Use first registration date primarily
  • If never registered, use manufacture date with proof

Voluntary Testing for Historic Vehicles

Why Voluntarily MOT?:

  • Insurance policy requirements
  • Peace of mind about roadworthiness
  • Buyer confidence when selling
  • Personal safety assurance
  • Verification for events/shows

Voluntary Test Process:

  • Book as normal vehicle
  • Same standards applied
  • Certificate issued if passed
  • Can use for insurance/resale evidence

Classic Vehicle Considerations

Important: Exemption does not mean the vehicle can be un-roadworthy. Must still:

  • Be safe to drive
  • Meet construction and use regulations
  • Have valid insurance
  • Be taxed (even if £0 rate)

Police can issue prohibition notices if dangerous defects found, exemption notwithstanding.

Imported Vehicles

European Imports

EU-Origin Vehicles:

  • Require MOT from 3 years (or 1 year for heavy vehicles)
  • Tested to UK standards
  • May need headlamp modification (beam pattern)
  • Speedometer in MPH preferred but not mandatory for MOT

Registration: Must be UK-registered before MOT testing

Non-European Imports

US, Japanese, Australian Imports:

  • Must pass IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) or MSVA (Mutual recognition of whole vehicle type approval) before registration
  • Once registered, normal MOT requirements apply
  • May have unique features requiring specialist knowledge
  • Modifications to meet UK standards often needed

Special Equipment:

  • Daytime running lights (if originally fitted)
  • Side marker lights
  • Seat belt standards
  • Emission equipment

Electric and Alternative Fuel Vehicles

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)

MOT Requirements:

  • Same as petrol/diesel vehicles
  • No emissions test (no exhaust)
  • First MOT: 3 years
  • Annual testing thereafter

Specific Checks:

  • High voltage system safety
  • Battery security and condition
  • Electrical system warning labels
  • Charging port condition
  • Under-body protection for battery

Not Checked:

  • Battery capacity or range (not MOT criteria)
  • Charging speed
  • Battery health percentage

Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles (PHEVs)

Testing:

  • Tested based on primary fuel type (usually petrol)
  • Emissions tested in combustion mode
  • Electrical system safety checked
  • Both propulsion systems considered

Hydrogen Vehicles

MOT Requirements:

  • Emerging technology - standards developing
  • Fuel system safety critical
  • Tested to enhanced safety standards
  • Specialist facilities may be required

LPG and Bi-Fuel Vehicles

Converted Vehicles:

  • Tested in petrol mode for emissions
  • LPG system installation checked for safety
  • Conversion certificate may be required
  • Tank security and condition assessed
  • Pipework examined for leaks

Modified and Customized Vehicles

Performance Modifications

Engine Modifications:

  • Must still meet emissions standards
  • Catalytic converter must remain (if originally fitted)
  • Excessive noise may cause failure
  • Engine mount security checked

Suspension Modifications:

  • Must be safe and properly fitted
  • Excessive lowering may fail on damage risk
  • Ride height sensors (if fitted) must work
  • Must not cause abnormal tyre wear

Appearance Modifications

Body Modifications:

  • Must not create sharp edges
  • Structural integrity maintained
  • No dangerous protrusions
  • Weight distribution acceptable

Lighting Modifications:

  • Must meet legal requirements
  • Headlight aim within standards
  • Correct colours maintained
  • No flashing lights (except indicators)

Classification Changes

Severe Modifications May Require:

  • Re-classification
  • IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval)
  • SVA (Single Vehicle Approval) for older vehicles
  • Professional engineering assessment

Summary: MOT Requirements by Vehicle Type

Standard Cars (Class 4):

  • First MOT: 3 years
  • Frequency: Annual
  • Fee: £54.85 max

Motorcycles (Class 1/2):

  • First MOT: 3 years
  • Frequency: Annual
  • Fee: £29.65 / £37.80 max

Vans (Class 4/7):

  • First MOT: 3 years
  • Frequency: Annual
  • Fee: £54.85 / £58.60 max

Heavy Vehicles (3,500kg+):

  • First MOT: 12 months
  • Frequency: Annual
  • Fee: Varies by class

Passenger Vehicles (9+ seats):

  • First MOT: 12 months
  • Frequency: Annual (or more frequent per local authority)
  • Fee: Based on capacity

Historic Vehicles (40+ years):

  • Exempt (if not substantially changed)
  • Voluntary testing available

Electric Vehicles:

  • Same as equivalent petrol/diesel
  • No emissions test
  • Battery safety checks

Finding the Right Test Centre

Considerations:

  • Ensure authorized for your vehicle class
  • Check equipment capability (e.g., HGVs need large facilities)
  • Verify examiner qualifications for specialist vehicles
  • Compare prices within authorized centres
  • Read reviews for vehicle-specific testing

DVSA MOT Centre Finder: Official tool shows authorized classes for each centre

Conclusion

MOT requirements vary significantly by vehicle type, but all share the common goal of ensuring road safety and environmental compliance. Understanding your specific vehicle's requirements ensures:

  • Legal compliance: Testing at correct intervals
  • Appropriate testing: Using suitable test centres
  • Correct standards: Meeting your vehicle category requirements
  • Cost awareness: Knowing expected fees
  • Exemption understanding: Knowing if exempt and what that means

Always verify your specific requirements if your vehicle is unusual, heavily modified, or imported, as individual circumstances may vary from standard categories.

Check your vehicle's MOT history to verify test dates, results, and ensure your vehicle is correctly classified. Our free service provides instant access to complete MOT records from the official DVSA database.