Coronavirus in Sheffield: Six-month MOT exemption announced for all drivers

All cars, vans and motorcycles will be exempt from needing a test from March 30.

ROYALTY: Latest as Prince Charles tests positive for coronavirus

The move is aimed at allowing people to carry on with essential travel during the coronavirus pandemic, the DfT said.

But drivers have been warned that vehicles must be kept in a roadworthy condition.

LATEST: South Yorkshire police boss backs lockdown enforcement tactics used by officers

Garages can remain open for essential repair work.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “We must ensure those on the front line of helping the nation combat Covid-19 are able to do so.

“Allowing this temporary exemption from vehicle testing will enable vital services such as deliveries to continue, frontline workers to get to work, and people to get essential food and medicine.

“Safety is key, which is why garages will remain open for essential repair work.”

Legislation will be introduced on March 30, which means any vehicle requiring an MOT in the following 12 months will be given a six-month exemption.

In normal circumstances, vehicles must have an MOT on the third anniversary of their registration, and then every 12 months if they are more than three years old.

AA president Edmund King described the change in policy as a ‘sensible solution’ as many drivers are anxious about their MOT running out while in self-isolation.

He added: “Drivers should only use their cars for essential journeys throughout the lockdown and must ensure they keep their car in a good condition.”