The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) reports a record-breaking number of vehicle tests in Northern Ireland. The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) is consulting the public on the potential shift to biennial MOT testing for some vehicles, while modern vehicle safety standards are highlighted as a factor in the proposed change.
Last year witnessed a record-breaking 1.148 million vehicle tests conducted in Northern Ireland , marking the second-highest annual figure ever recorded. This surge in testing activity comes as the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) embarks on a public consultation to explore the potential for biennial MOT testing. Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd is championing the idea of reducing the annual MOT requirement for vehicles to every two years.
DfI is actively seeking public feedback on this proposed shift, which would primarily impact private cars, motorcycles, and light goods vehicles. It's important to note that the mandatory first vehicle test would remain unchanged at four years for private cars and motorcycles and three years for light goods vehicles. Projections indicate a future increase in MOT testing requirements, with an estimated 1.2 million tests for light vehicles and 65,000 for heavy vehicles by 2030. The implementation of biennial testing for cars aged between four and ten years and light goods vehicles between three and ten years is anticipated to exempt approximately 253,000 (26%) of the one million vehicles currently subject to annual testing. Meanwhile, recent data reveals a fluctuating demand for MOT tests. While some test centers offer rapid appointments, with first availability as early as Monday, others face extended wait times, scheduling initial appointments as late as March and mid-April. December 2024 saw a significant spike in MOT tests, with 83,849 tests conducted, representing an increase of 7.8% compared to December 2023. The DVA attributes this surge to various factors, including the introduction of Temporary Exemption Certificates (TECs) for eligible vehicles. These TECs, valid for twelve months from the expiration date of the current certificate, aim to alleviate pressure on the testing system. However, despite the introduction of TECs, the DVA emphasizes that the overall number of tests conducted will remain consistent or potentially increase to meet demand. Any changes to the MOT testing frequency would necessitate an Act of the Northern Ireland Assembly, requiring the introduction of primary legislation. Additionally, a review of MOT fee costs may be necessary to ensure full cost recovery for DVA services. The current consultation, spanning 12 weeks until April 16, 2025, builds upon the 2021 Call for Evidence on Biennial MOT testing. Minister O'Dowd argues that given the high standards and safety features of modern vehicles, the exploration of biennial MOT testing is a timely and relevant initiative.
MOT Testing Biennial Testing Northern Ireland DVA Dfi Vehicle Regulations Public Consultation Transport Safety
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