Classic car owners could soon face new MOT tests (Image: Getty)
owners could lose one of the biggest benefits of owning a historic model by the Labour Government.
Under the current rules, vehicles registered more than 40 years ago are exempt from the annual safety check and from paying Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) fees.
It means models built before 1985 are deemed classic models and can drive legally on UK roads without getting tested.
However, officials have queried whether with British drivers backing changes.
held by the DVLA asked whether a “new type of safety check” for historic vehicle owners should be introduced.
Historic vehicle owners could lose a major exemption (Image: Getty)
The findings report that a “majority of comments” with only 36% totally against a new test.
A staggering 18% of the 1,083 respondents said they wanted to see a test identical or very similar to the current MOT exam introduced for older models.
Meanwhile, 10% suggested they wanted some kind of test to come into effect but leaned more towards a “basic check for roadworthiness” exam.
This would determine whether a vehicle was safe to drive on UK roads but would not go as in-depth as a full MOT test.
Meanwhile, 8% suggested they wanted to see an MOT-style test that was “appropriate for the age of the vehicle”.
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This would mean examiners would not need to test historic models for emissions as it is expected they would be higher than modern cars.
Finally, 5% said there should be an “ad hoc” inspection process with historic noodles only liable for inspection when theft had undergone restoration.
One motorist responding to the consultation said: “A one-off safety check following major restoration or repair work would be appropriate. Individual Vehicle Approval is not suitable in this context.”
Another added: “There should be some form of safety check to ensure vehicle is safe.”
Although the consultation was only put together to gather views of road users, the DVLA has suggested that some action may be taken.
At the bottom of the consultation response report, officials hinted that “proposals for potential change” will now be put together behind the scenes.
Once concluded, it could see the introduction of sweeping MOT updates for classic car owners as early as 2025.
The DVLA said: “The findings in this high-level summary report reflect the responses received.
“Further detailed analysis and consideration of the responses is being carried out with a view to formulating proposals for potential change.”