Newcastle motorists urged to book MOTs now amid fear of appointment shortage across city

Newcastle motorists are being urged to plan ahead and book their vehicles in for MOTs amid a fear of a shortage of appointments in the city.
The DVSA are urging drivers to get their MOTs booked in or face potential fines. The DVSA are urging drivers to get their MOTs booked in or face potential fines.
The DVSA are urging drivers to get their MOTs booked in or face potential fines.

A surge in demand for MOTs this autumn is expected, with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) urging motorists to book their vehicles in sooner rather than later.

MOT extensions were put in place during the early part of the pandemic to help protect public health.

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The extensions mean that more vehicles will now need an MOT in the autumn, and Newcastle will need an extra 12,633 in the city during October alone.

DVSA analysis of past and present data showing which vehicles would need an MOT and when, reveals that the autumn surge in demand will be felt the most in certain cities across Britain, including Sheffeld.

Chris Price, DVSA’s head of MOT policy, said: “DVSA’s priority is to help everyone keep their vehicle safe to drive.

“While we’re sure everyone will be able get a test for their vehicle, slots will be harder to come by.

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“If you want to use your usual garage and guarantee a slot before your expiry date, you should give them a call now and get it booked in.”

The DVSA is also reminding drivers that the law states vehicles need to be kept in a roadworthy condition all year, regardless of when the MOT is due. If a vehicle is found to be unsafe at any time of the year, motorists could be fined or have points on their licence.

How much is a fine if you don’t get you car an MOT?

The maximum fine for driving a vehicle on the road without an MOT is £1000.

If the police find a motorist driving an unroadworthy vehicle, they could be fined and given points for each defect. For example one tyre with less than 1.6mm tread could mean 3 points on your licence and a fine.

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Car owners can sign up to free MOT reminders using DVSA’s service by clicking this link.

When and how often does my car need an MOT?

An MOT can be carried out up to one calendar month (minus a day) prior to the expiry date of the existing MOT certificate, while still preserving the anniversary of the expiry date. This means drivers can book in a bit early if needed.

The DVSA is also reminding drivers that the law states vehicles need to be kept in a roadworthy condition all year, regardless of when the MOT is due. This means if a vehicle is found to be unsafe at any time of the year, due to tyre wear or poor brakes for example, they could be fined or have points on their licence.

Where Newcastle ranks in list of predicted extra tests needed next month

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