Government update re MOTs during coronavirus
The government has announced a temporary six-month extension to any vehicles due to renew its current MOT after 30th March 2020.
Motorists that were due to update their MOT from 1st April had been left wondering what to do as a large number of garages are closed.
This morning’s announcement has confirmed the following:
- Motorists do not need to do anything to extend their vehicle’s MOT if it expires on or after 30th March – the vehicle will be automatically given a six-month MOT exemption
- Cars/vans must be kept in a roadworthy condition
However, if the vehicle’s first MOT was due before 30th March 2020 and it did not/doesn’t pass, the vehicle will need to pass before you can drive it again – it will not qualify for the auto-extension.
The government is allowing MOT centres and garages to remain open for those customers that require an MOT to use their vehicle for the following reasons:
- to shop for basic necessities, for example, food and medicine, which must be as infrequent as possible
- for any medical need, or to provide care or to help a vulnerable person
- to travel to and from work, but only where this absolutely cannot be done from home
Mike Thompson, director at LeasingOptions.co.uk said: “There’s so many changes and restrictions at the moment it’s hard for consumers to keep up.
“This government announcement is its latest effort to help motorists and will certainly be welcomed within the motoring industry.”