Widespread MOT testing for cars to resume in September

Following the resumption of testing for some vehicle groups earlier this month, the The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) now plans to start MOT testing for additional categories including four year old cars and motorbikes, three year old light goods vehicles and testing of heavy goods vehicles, trailers and buses. These customers will be sent a reminder letter with details of how to book a test.

The DVA will initially prioritise those requests from key workers followed by those customers whose tests were cancelled due to lockdown. The DVA will contact these customers directly to arrange appointments. A further update will be provided when all other customers will be able to book a test.

Infrastucture Minister Nichola Mallon stated: “I very much recognise the frustrations of those customers not able to take driving tests during this time and the inconvenience this has caused. I am pleased to announce that the DVA plans to resume car and lorry driving tests from September 1, initially prioritising over 200 key workers and then those customers who have had tests cancelled to ensure they are not further inconvenienced, with the priority of keeping staff and customers safe.

“It is anticipated that there will be a significant demand for driving tests when all services are reinstated and while the DVA will endeavour to facilitate appointments at the earliest opportunity, it is likely that initial waiting times for driving tests will be longer than usual.

“This remains a difficult and uncertain time for everyone and we continue to keep planning under review.”