According to the DVLA, MOT tests are to be scrapped for vehicles registered before 1960. Although they may still be tested, this will be voluntary.
“Owners of classic cars and motorbikes tend to be enthusiasts who maintain their vehicles well,” says transport minister Mike Penning. “They don’t need to be told to look after them, they’re out there in all weathers checking the condition of the engine, tyres and bodywork.
“We are committed to cutting out red tape which costs motorists money without providing significant overall benefits.”
Under the new rules, the owners 160,000 or so pre-1960 cars on the road will still have to prove their cars are in a safe and roadworthy condition – and they will be able to undertake an MoT test should they choose to do so – but it will be voluntary.
The new legisation has been met with mixed feelings by car owners and safety experts who are concerned that safety standards are at risk and driver and padestrian safety may be compromised.

Jon Cherry is a Director of leading personalised number plate dealer Regplates.com. Jon has over 25 years industry experience handling some of the most expensive plates ever sold with many high profile and celebrity clients. Active since 1991 in the number plate industry, Jon is currently Chairman of the Cherished Numbers Guild, a trade body representing number plate dealers in the UK. Jon has written many articles on the industry and insight into the future of numberplates and the market as a whole.