Drivers have been given a date as to when MOT tests will be made mandatory again after a break during the coronavirus pandemic.
A six-month exemption for the annual motor check was granted in March as the UK went into lockdown.
But with measures now easing across the UK, MOT tests for cars, motorcycles and vans will once again be made mandatory in England, Scotland and Wales, bringing an end to the extension scheme.
Roads minister Baroness Vere has announced that from August 1, MOT tests are mandatory.
Drivers with an MOT due date prior to August 1 will continue to receive a six-month exemption from the test, but their vehicle will still be required to be properly maintained and kept in a roadworthy condition.
However, these people are still able to voluntarily get their cars MOT'd should they want to.
Even if drivers have been granted an automatic exemption, the Department for Transport (DfT) is asking drivers to still take their cars to be checked over by a professional mechanic if they notice something is wrong with their vehicle.
Baroness Vere said: "As people return to our roads, it is vital that motorists are able to keep their vehicles safe. That’s why as restrictions are eased, from 1 August MOT testing will again become mandatory.
"Garages across the country are open and I urge drivers who are due for their MOT to book a test as soon they can."
But, you should not take your vehicle for its MOT if either:
- you're self-isolating as you or someone you live with has coronavirus symptoms
- you’re being advised to shield as you are extremely vulnerable from coronavirus - there's different guidance for shielding for England, Scotland and Wales
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