Do we need to get an MOT, if we don't use the car during lockdown?

savings_sos

Do we need an MOT, if we don't use the car during lockdown?

As on the government Gov.uk website it states:

National Lockdown: Stay at Home
The majority of public services will continue and you will be able to leave home to visit them. These include:
- getting an MOT, if you need to drive when lawfully leaving home

However the Gov.uk website also states:
- You cannot drive or park your vehicle on the road if the MOT has run out. You can be prosecuted if caught.

Thank you for any advice!

Jeremy535897

If it is off the road, you should SORN it.

daveyjp

If a car is on the public highway it needs an MOT (unless it is over 40 years old, or is being driven to an appointment for an MOT).

sheramber

 if you are not using it the it comes under 
You cannot drive or park your vehicle on the road if the MOT has run out. You can be prosecuted if caught.
So, it needs to be parked  off the road.
Once the MOT runs out you will only be able to drive it on the road to go to a pre booked MOT test.

savings_sos

Jeremy535897 said:

If it is off the road, you should SORN it.

Its not off the road, but just parked on the street as not used it, since currently working from home and getting shopping deliveries. 

poppy12345

As has been advised, if you don't MOT it then you'll have to keep it off the road.

Niv

If you really have not used your car at all I suggest you keep the battery healthy or you may have an issue when you do go to start it in future!
Regarding the MOT issue, if off road it has to be done as indicated by others above.

lincroft1710

I don't think the hastily conceived, misleading and ambiguous "covid laws and guidelines" overturn the well established legislation that all cars between 3 and 40 years old which are kept on a public road need an MOT

savings_sos

According to: https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/cars/1380147/can-i-get-my-car-mot-during-lockdown-evg

But the Government urged motorists to only get an MOT "if you need to drive when lawfully leaving home". Under current restrictions, you'll lawfully be using your car if you're driving to work as a key worker.

You may also choose to drive to the local supermarket to collect essential food supplies, or to the nearest chemist for medicine.

You'll also be allowed to use the car if you're driving to escape domestic abuse.

But you should only use your car - and subsequently, get an MOT - if you absolutely need to.

strawb_shortcake

What if you have an emergency, unable to get food delivered or unable to get a timely MOT when restrictions are eased?

savings_sos

annabanana82 said:

What if you have an emergency, unable to get food delivered or unable to get a timely MOT when restrictions are eased?

Good points, but I just want to know what is the Gov legal stance on this is, can we wait a few more weeks until after lockdown or does it have to be done now?