MOT tests are simple… Except for when they’re not! If you drive a normal family car, then you’ll probably not have to worry much. But what about your works van, or your motorbike?
Let’s help you understand the different MOT classes, and which type of vehicles fall into each category – so you can know when and where to schedule your next MOT test, and stay within the regulations.
MOT Class 1 and 2: Motorcycles and Mopeds
MOT Class 1 covers motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 200cc. This includes motorbikes with sidecars, as well as vehicles like mopeds, Vespas, and other small engined two-wheelers. If your vehicle falls into this category, you need to get a test every year for any vehicle over 3 years old.
Class 2 MOT tests are for motorcycles with an engine capacity over 200cc – typically larger bikes and cruisers. The same annual testing rules apply for vehicles over 3 years of age.
MOT Class 3: 3-Wheelers
This one’s easy to remember… Class 3 MOT tests are designed for three-wheeled vehicles. This category includes trikes and some older three-wheeled cars (Reliant Robin, anyone?!). If you’re unsure whether your three-wheeled vehicle falls into this class, it’s a good idea to check with your local MOT test centre.
MOT Class 4: Cars and Small Vans
Most people’s MOT test will be a Class 4 MOT test – covering cars and small vans. If you drive a standard passenger car, a small van or a Range Rover-type vehicle, your test more than likely belongs to this class
Class 4 MOTs also cover:
- Quads (with a maximum unladen weight of 400 kg)
- Dual purpose vehicles
- Taxis, private passenger vehicles and ambulances (with 9-12 passenger seats)
- Goods vehicles (up to 3,000 kg design gross weight)
These tests assess everything from the vehicle’s safety features to its exhaust emissions.
Learn more about the Class 4 MOT test
MOT Class 5: Large Passenger Vehicles
So, a passenger vehicle with 13 or more seats (like a minibus or a large passenger van) falls under a Class 5 MOT test. So do things like private ambulances, and larger goods vehicles with seatbelts (carried out as a Class 5A test). These tests are more comprehensive to ensure the safety of multiple passengers, and require that the tester is qualified to deliver them. Class 5 and 5A tests are annual, and must be carried out after one year – not three.
We’ll jump to Class 7 next, as 6 and 6A are reserved for public service vehicles like police cars, and are tested at designated centres.
MOT Class 7: Commercial Vehicles
For commercial vehicles, Class 7 MOT tests are the norm. This class includes goods vehicles with a gross weight exceeding 3,000 kg, but not exceeding 3,500 kg. If you’re operating a small to medium-sized delivery van or a commercial vehicle, you’ll need to adhere to Class 7 MOT regulations: an annual test, beginning three years from new.
Specialist MOTs
You need to get an HGV, bus or trailer MOT (also known as an ‘annual test’) for goods vehicles with a gross weight of more than 3,500 kg, semi-trailers, horseboxes with a gross weight of more than 3,500kg – and several other large, specialist vehicles. Find out more here.
Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
If you drive a hybrid or electric vehicle, you still need to get an MOT test! The testing process is generally the same, with specific checks related to battery health and safety, and of course there’s no MOT emissions test. Personal EVs fall under Class 4 MOT tests.
Understanding MOT classes and which type of vehicles belong to each category is good to know for vehicle owners in the UK – even if you only get Class 4 tests for now.
Remember, MOTs help secure the roadworthiness and safety of your vehicle, so don’t forget to book yours before it’s due.
Book your MOT now
Book your MOT test in Eastleigh today, with We Only Do MOTs. We promise to provide an impartial, independent MOT to everyone – and will carry out most minor repairs for free.
Send your message to enquiries@onlydomots.co.uk or call us on 023 8064 7180.
