MOT testing: DfT rules out tests every two years

In November 2006, the Davidson Review of the Implementation of European Legislation - which reported in November 2006 - questioned why the UK test vehicles earlier and more frequently than the minimum requirements of EC law. EU law currently requires, as a minimum, a first test of cars not less than four years after registration, and subsequent testing not less than every other year thereafter. Currently the UK requires that cars are tested three years after registration and then annually thereafter.

Following a risk analysis of possible changes, the Department for Transport has concluded that the MOT test - and test frequency in particular - is strongly cost-beneficial, and it therefore does not plan to make any changes.