Plans for two year tests abandoned after backlash
The Government has scrapped a “madcap” change to MoT rules that would have made testing compulsory every two years instead of annually, as well as abandoning proposals to extend the first MoT for a new car, van or motorcycle from three to four years after purchase.
The major shake-up of the MoT regime was proposed in January 2023, accompanied by a consultation by the Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). At the time, the Government suggested that the new measures could be rolled out because fewer vehicles were failing MoT tests thanks to improving technology, helping drivers to save money. However, the move was slammed by many in the automotive sector, who pointed out that the current frequency of MoT testing plays a crucial role in keeping vehicles on our roads safe. “This would have seriously compromised road safety and ended up costing drivers more money rather than less as it was supposed to do, due to dangerous issues going undetected and getting progressively worse,” said Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC. “This is why the idea was so widely unpopular with the motoring public in our research. It’s great news the madcap idea of changing the MoT has finally been consigned to the bin.” The Independent Garage Association (IGA) also welcomed the news, having organised a petition signed by over 11,000 concerned members and indi
