Coronavirus: Drivers given six-month MOT holiday because of pandemic
Relaxation of rules applies to car, motorcycle and vans
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The government has granted drivers a six-month extension to their MOT because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Motorists who have an MOT due from Monday 30 March will not have to do anything and will automatically be given a six-month extension.
However, vehicles must still be kept in a roadworthy condition, with garages remaining open for essential repair works, and prosecutions for unsafe vehicles still possible.
The new change applies to car, motorcycle and vans. Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: “We must ensure those on the frontline of helping the nation combat Covid-19 are able to do so.
“Allowing this temporary exemption from vehicle testing will enable vital services such as deliveries to continue, frontline workers to get to work, and people get essential food and medicine.
“Safety is key, which is why garages will remain open for essential repair work.”
The government says legislation will be introduced on 30 March and will come into immediate effect for 12 months.
Drivers will still need to get their vehicles tested until the new legislation comes into place if they are due.
Vehicles that previously did not pass a first MOT will not be given an extension.
The government has also suspended practical driving tests and annual testing for lorries, buses and coaches for up to three months.
Government pandemic lockdown rules mean people are banned from leaving their homes except under very specific circumstances – under threat of fines.
The government has said people can only leave their homes for one of four reasons: infrequent shopping for basic necessities, one form of exercise a day, medical assistance and helping a vulnerable person, or travelling to and from work where it cannot be done at home.
Even when following the guidance people should stay two metres away from each other at all times, government guidance says – and seek to minimise the amount of time they spend outside their homes.
All social events such as weddings, baptisms and other ceremonies have also been banned – though funerals, attended by immediate family only, will be allowed
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments