The Dvsa Is Changing Mot Rules Effective January 2026
First up: the famous 40-year historic vehicle exemption is getting a tweak. If your car is between 40 and 46 years old, it might no longer get that automatic MOT-free pass. Instead, you’ll need to prove it’s been substantially unchanged—think “original parts” and “correctly maintained.”
But wait—this isn’t about punishing vintage lovers. It’s about saving classic cars from clueless owners who let them rust into history. A little MOT check keeps your pride and joy actually road-safe, not just pretty.
New Rules for Tyres? Oh Yes!
Here’s a juicy one: from January, your tyres will face stricter checks for cracking, perishing, or age-related damage. Even if tread depth looks fine, if the rubber is old and brittle, it’s a fail. Think of it as your car’s way of saying, “Hey, I’m not a museum piece—let me grip the road!”
And that’s not all: engine and battery health will get a closer look. The DVSA wants to catch small issues before they become expensive disasters. Honestly? That’s like having a free mechanic friend who catches your car’s hiccups early.