The annual MoT test for cars over three years old could be scrapped, if suggestions made by a Government review are implemented.
Instead, cars over four years old would need testing only every other year. Currently, cars over three years old must undergo the MoT test every year.
The Davidson Review into the implementation of EU legislation reckoned that reducing the frequency of MoT tests could save UK motorists £80million in the first year, without any significant reduction in safety. Combined with testing only every other year, and tests only on vehicles over four years old, the saving would be £465million.
The UK's MoT testing policy has remained largely unchanged since 1968, but the proposal is to alter it so that it merely meets minimum EU requirements. Currently only Latvia has more frequent and more stringent testing than the UK.
Naturally any savings would have to balanced against the potential costs of having less-roadworthy vehicles on the road. The Government will consult with the police and road safety groups before any reform is carried out. Either way, you'll still need to get an annual MoT test for at least another two years.
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