What Is the Purpose Behind Introducting MOT Test?

In short, this is a legal inspection that is required for all types of vehicles except classic and historical vehicles. Any vehicle that undergoes this test is assessed for its physical health to know what problems it has. If the tester finds any defect, it is classified as minor or severe according to its level but keep in mind that it leads to failing the test.

The Transport Ministry had a big purpose behind implementing this test. They wanted that if faulty vehicles are identified and stopped from being used legally, then there would be no possibility of road accidents. Since the number of vehicles on the road is increasing every day and the fault of just one vehicle can cause road danger, so if others also malfunction like this then it can become a dangerous crisis.

This is considered an important step not only to maintain safety but also to protect the environment as testing also detects problematic parts that do not support environmental friendliness. It is our responsibility to think about the well-being of the environment as it also impacts on us.

What about Centres Carrying Out MOT Tests?

Considering all the notable points, many laws are made for conducting this test with effective rules and regulations, for instance, failure results, re-test, an appeal against the result, the validity of the certificate, penalties to drive when MOT is due, etc. 

Only DVSA-authorised centres can carry out this MOT Test Shirley or anywhere else in the UK. These stations can also be identified by their logo as it is made up of three types of triangles and these are connected, 2 of which are on the top side and one is on the bottom side. Whoever does the necessary inspection, the tester must also be well-trained.

Everything You Should Know About MOT Due Dates

By now you must have understood from the information we have given here why this test is so important. All vehicles must participate in this test, be it light or heavy, two-wheeler, three-wheeler, four-wheeler, traveller, side bike or anything else, except those which are above 40 years of age and also follow certain terms and conditions. If you want to know when this test is required, take note of the points given below:

Due date of First MOT-

• For taxis, ambulances and private passenger vehicles, it is exactly one year after their purchase. 

• Apart from these vehicles, others are given a gap of 3 years after their date of registration.

The VT20 certificate is awarded after properly clearing every aspect of the test. It is proof that shows that it has been deemed completely roadworthy and environmentally friendly during the inspection.

The validity of this certification will be applicable only for 12 months (this is for every type of vehicle), after that, it is returned to MOT due status.  

Why Do We Have to Go to MOT Station?

When vehicles do not properly adhere to the due dates or their MOT certificate becomes invalid, they are no longer fit to drive. Such vehicles are considered to be compromised in terms of safety and hence, if someone is caught using them, he or she will have to pay a fine which can go up to a maximum of £2500. There are very few cases in which you are allowed to drive and these are as follows:

If you have pre-booked to get an appointment from a centre and you drive your vehicle to go there.

During testing, a fault is detected and you take your car to another garage for repairs. 

Remember, we are not talking about dangerous issues as you’re not to drive your car anywhere using such a vehicle that may pose a threat to your safety as well as that of others.

In both the cases mentioned above, it will be possible for you to use your legally disapproved vehicle only after you show the proper proof to the transport authority in their presence.

What Is the Maximum MOT Fee?

We also get a lot of questions about the fees. One thing you should know is that the MOT test charges are not the same for all vehicles as it depends on their, size, activity, seats etc. After considering all these, DVSA has set the amount of fee. For instance, we take ambulances whose fees depend on the passenger seat adjusted in it.

• Less than 9 seats— £54.85

• 9 to 12 seats— £57.30

• 13 to 16 seats– £59.55

• More than 16 seats—  £80.65

Now if we talk about the fees of this motorcycle, then it is something like this:

• Maximum coverage 200 cm3— £29.65

• For all single motorcycles— £29.65

• Also has any engine-sized side car— £37.80

If you own a car or a light-weight van, the maximum amount you may be asked to pay is £54.85.

Whenever you go for an MOT Test in Birmingham or elsewhere, no centre can ask you to pay more than the fee set by the DVSA as they have no such rights.