The MOT test has come a long way since it was first introduced more than 60 years ago. The essential checks it makes possible ensure the highest standards of safety for drivers, passengers, pedestrians and other road users. But, contrary to popular belief, not every vehicle requires an MOT.

Here we take a closer look at the history behind the MOT, the vehicles that require this annual test, and those that are exempt.

When was the first MOT test?

The MOT, or Ministry of Transport, test was first introduced back in 1960. Following the post-war, economic boom, more and more people were driving than ever, with the buoyant – if not unregulated – second hand car market thriving as a result.

With no legal requirements to keep cars maintained or undergo regular servicing, many vehicles were in particularly dangerous conditions. With this, the MOT was born, with the test mandatory for all vehicles manufactured 10 or more years ago.

What’s tested during an MOT?

During this period, the MOT test wasn’t as comprehensive as it is now. In its early years, the MOT simply checked the brakes, lights and steering on an annual basis, yet its scope was expanded after a number of other failures. The age of the vehicles that had to undergo a mandatory MOT test was also lowered to seven years after this initial year, and dropped again to three years in 1967.

The MOT test now checks a long list of vehicle parts, including the brakes, fuel system, lights, mirrors, wipers, exhaust and seatbelts. It doesn’t however check the condition of the clutch, gearbox or engine.

Which vehicles have to undergo an MOT?

The vast majority of vehicles that are aged three years or more require an annual MOT test. Vehicles used as ambulances, taxis or to carry 9 to 12 private passengers have to have an MOT after their first year however. Lorries, buses and trailers also need to be tested, but instead of an MOT they undergo an ‘annual vehicle test’.

Goods vehicles powered by electricity and registered before 1^st March 2015, tractors, and historic or classic vehicles built or first registered more than 40 years ago, do not require an MOT test.

What about motorbikes?

The same rules apply to motorbikes with engine sizes up to or over 200cc and with or without sidecars. Along with three-wheeled, hybrid, electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles however, motorcycles and quadricycles are exempt from official emissions testing.