Dvsa could make mot rule change forcing 300,000 drivers off road

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) could implement an MOT rule change that may force 300,000 drivers off the road. In May 2024, the DVSA and the Department for Transport (DfT)

initiated a "call for evidence" from motorists and road users. They sought opinions in nine specific areas concerning the current policies governing the registration and licensing

of classic cars. The call for evidence concluded in July 2024, with 1,371 responses received to 46 detailed questions. Of these, 1,162 were from individual respondents, while 129 came from

various organisations. The consultation asked: "Should there be a new type of safety check in place which takes into account the age of a historic or classic vehicle? If so, please

provide evidence and reasons to support your views." 36% felt there was no need for a new type of safety check. 18% said "yes, same or similar to current MOT test", and 10%

said "yes, basic check for roadworthiness". 8% want an MOT style test appropriate to the age of the vehicle, for example, no need for an emissions check, reports Birmingham Live.

5% suggested ad-hoc inspections when the vehicle is used on the road or following major restoration. The DfT stated: "Yes an age and status-related 'sympathetic' style MOT

would be useful, particularly for classic cars that are driven fairly regularly." "There should be some form of safety check to ensure vehicle is safe. A one-off safety check

following major restoration or repair work would be appropriate. Individual Vehicle Approval is not suitable in this context." UK vehicle licensing records, accurate as of 15 December

2023, indicate that a total of 338,697 classic cars are currently held by British motorists. Classified as 'historic vehicles', these cars are eligible for various exemptions, such

as from the MOT test, Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), and the London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).