Martin Lewis issues urgent warning to drivers as new MOT rules launch in 48 hours

Mandatory testing is to be reintroduced from 1 August 2020

Martin Lewis has issued an urgent warning to drivers as the government’s MOT exemption comes to an end.

In March, drivers were granted a six-month exemption from MOT testing due to the coronavirus outbreak.

However, as restrictions begin to ease, all drivers whose car, motorcycle or van is due for an MOT test from 1 August will be required to get a test certificate to continue driving their vehicle.

Speaking about the rule changes on The Martin Lewis Money Show, Lewis said: “Compulsory MOT tests restart on 1 August in England, Scotland and Wales. So if you’ve got an MOT due then, you will need it.”

He added: “If your MOT was due between 30 March and 31 July you automatically get six months added. So, say it was due on 17 July, you won’t have to do your MOT until 17 January.

“The other point is that your car still has to be roadworthy even if your MOT has been extended.”

Anyone caught on the roads without a valid MOT certificate could face a fine of up to £2,500.

MOT tests are important for road safety and ensure that vehicle parts, including tyres, seatbelts, brakes, lights and exhausts, are in proper working order.

Under the new guidelines, drivers with an MOT due date before 1 August will still receive a six-month exemption from testing. However, all vehicles must continue to be properly maintained and kept in a roadworthy condition.

“As people return to our roads, it is vital that motorists are able to keep their vehicles safe. That’s why as restrictions are eased, from 1 August MOT testing will again become mandatory,” said roads minister Baroness Vere.

“Garages across the country are open and I urge drivers who are due for their MOT to book a test as soon they can.”

The government has added that drivers should still take their vehicle to be checked if they notice something is wrong in the same way that they usually would.

Any drivers who are self-isolating should contact their local garage if their car needs to be checked as many are offering pick-up and drop-off services, it adds.

Edmund King, president of British motoring association the AA, has welcomed the return of mandatory MOT testing, saying: “It makes sense to reintroduce MOT testing from 1 August now that Covid-19 restrictions are being lifted and all garages and dealerships are open.

“Car traffic is on the increase already and will grow as more drivers return to the road with the reopening of hospitality and travel with their families for staycation holidays.”