The Department for Transport has published definitions covering the 40-year exemption for vehicles of historic interest and what modifications are acceptable.
Vehicles over forty-years-old will be MOT exempt from May 20, 2018 on a rolling basis.
However, vehicles that have been substantially changed within the previous 30 years will still require an MOT.
In its official guidance, the Department for Transport said: “A vehicle will be considered substantially changed if the technical characteristics of the main components have changed in the previous 30 years, unless the changes fall into specific categories.”
Criteria for substantial change
The main components have been identified as the chassis or monocoque bodyshell including any sub-frames, engine, axles and running gear.
Chassis replacements of the same pattern as the original, alternative cubic capacities of the same basic engine and alternative OE engines are not considered a substantial change.
Any modifications made to preserve a vehicle when original parts are no longer available and, in respect of running gear, improve efficiency or safety are acceptable.
MOT change means forty-year-old classic vehicles to be given exemption
Exemption from MOT for vehicles of historic interest will be administered through the vehicle tax renewal process.
It will be the responsibility of owners to declare whether their vehicle meets the requirements.
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