MOT test suspensions will be lifted for heavy vehicles although cars will not be made to take a test just yet as exemption rules still stand. HGV’s were only offered a three month extension back in March which has now come to an end. To manage demand the DVSA says owners who were due a test in June or July have been issued a further three month extension.
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MOT test extension may put motorists ‘at risk’
Starting in August, vehicles which have already received an exemption notice back in May will need to have a test.
These owners will need to pass their MOT by 30 September 2020 or will risk penalties such as fines.
But vehicles which are currently due their test in August will also receive a further three month exemption to help ease demand.
A DVSA statement says: “From 4 July, we are restarting testing for heavy vehicles.
“We have issued a three-month exemption for vehicles due to be tested in June and will issue further exemptions for July tests.
“This will help us manage demand as we resume testing.”
The DVSA has said HGV’s which were originally due their test in March will need to pass the exam by 30 September as these vehicles were already offered a previous extension.
The latest announcement will raise hopes among garages that extension for road cars will also soon be lifted.
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Cars were offered a longer six months extension which is issued seven days before the MOT test is due.
The DVSA offered no further mention of when car MOT tests will be restarted but the government is fearful of a surge in demand when restrictions are eased.
They are worried whether garages can cope with the backlog of tests on top of exams already scheduled for the end of the year.
It is likely that a similar staggered system will be introduced for cars which will see further extensions offered to some drivers.
Garage campaigners such as the Independent Garage Association (IGA) have previously raised concerns over the suspension.
They have warned any MOT extension increases the risk of leaving unroadworthy vehicles on UK streets.
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However, in an open letter to the Independent Garage Association (IGA), Transport Secretary Grant Shapp said the extension will not be lifted until it is safe.
The letter, published late last month, said the DVSA has been working on developing safe working practices for testers.
Mr Shapps said: “As you will be aware, my officials are engaged in regular discussions with industry stakeholders, yourself included, to discuss the resumption of testing.
“We need to ensure that an MOT can be conducted safely with the lowest possible risk to people’s health, this includes both MOT staff and those going in for tests.
“The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency has published guidance on conducting tests while adhering to social distancing measures, and they continue to work with testers to develop best practice guidance for these circumstances.
The Transport Secretary has also hinted that the government may introduce a scheme to ensure provisions are put into place for those who cannot attend a garage.
Mr Shapps said a “robust system” was needed so those in self isolation or most at risk of catching the disease are not penalised for failing to get their car tested.
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