Biennial MOT Test consultation

Views sought on potentially changing the frequency of MOT testing for some private cars, motorcycles and light goods vehicles.

The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) and the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) have launched a consultation on options for the annual road worthiness test (MOT) frequency.

Testing of all vehicles which use the public roads in NI is the responsibility of DVA through vehicle inspection at its 15 test centres. Currently private cars and motorcycles are first MOT tested at four years old and light goods vehicles under 3,500kg are first tested at three years old. All of those vehicle categories are tested annually thereafter.

The number of new vehicles registered by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) for use in Northern Ireland has continued to increase over recent years, which presents logistical challenges for DVA to meet the demand for vehicle testing. As a result, DfI is revisiting the current testing regimes for private cars, light goods vehicles and motorcycles to ensure they remain fit for purpose, both now and in the future. 

DfI is keen to hear from individuals, groups, organisations, the automotive industry (particularly those involved in vehicle servicing and MOT preparation) and those with a specific interest in road safety or the environment. The consultation presents a number of options to be considered including the current testing regime remaining.

Find out more about the consultation and how to respond.

First published 19 February 2025