UPDATE: We've now published a comprehensive guide to the new MoT exemption changes here
Earlier this year the Government revealed plans to exempt vehicles 40 years and older from the annual roadworthiness test from May 2018, with the exception of those that had been ‘substantially changed’ within the past 30 years.
Following consultation with the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs, new guidance has been released offering a degree of clarification – and it’s good news.
The Government’s definition of ‘substantial change’ has been laid out in detail below.
Vehicles of Historical Interest (VHI): Substantial Change Guidance
Most vehicles manufactured or first registered over 40 years ago will, as of 20 May 2018, be exempt from periodic testing unless they have been substantially changed.
A vehicle that has been substantially changed within the previous 30 years will have to be submitted for annual MoT testing. Whether a substantially changed vehicle requires re-registration is a separate process.
Keepers of VHIs exempt from periodic testing continue to be responsible for their vehicle’s roadworthiness. Keepers of vehicles over 40 years old can voluntarily submit vehicles for testing.