Historic (classic) vehicles: MOT and vehicle tax (2024)

FAQs

Why are old cars MOT exempt in the UK? ›

You do not need to get an MOT if the vehicle was first registered more than 40 years ago and no 'substantial changes' have been made to the vehicle in the last 30 years. This includes vehicles previously exempted on the basis of being first registered before 1960. Different rules apply to large vehicles.

If you've got a much-loved older car in your garage, you might be wondering: “When does a car become a classic?” In the UK, HMRC considers cars older than 15 years to be classics, but insurance companies and classic car enthusiasts each have their own criteria.

The Section 179 deduction allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying vehicles, including classic or antique cars, in the year they are placed into service. However, there are specific limits and eligibility criteria, so it's crucial to consult tax professionals for guidance.

In the UK, vehicles over 40 years old are generally exempt from annual Ministry of Transport (MOT) testing and road tax, provided they have not been substantially changed. If you do need to check an MOT for a vehicle, you can use our handy tool which provides all the information you need.

All vehicles with historic tax class are exempt from the ULEZ. This tax class applies if a vehicle was built more than 40 years ago, with the date moving forward on a 40-year rolling system. This 40-year rolling age limit is set by the DVLA. This tax class excludes vehicles that are used commercially.

The age criteria insurers use normally ranges between 15 and 25 years old. It is possible to obtain classic car insurance from mainstream providers, alongside specialist insurers. And as with standard car insurance, you can choose between third party, third party, fire and theft, and fully comprehensive insurance.

Classic car insurance is usually much cheaper than regular car insurance. According to Baily Insurance Agency, a classic car policy costs around $200 to $600 annually. If you own an abnormally expensive vehicle, your rates may be higher. In contrast, regular car insurance usually costs over $1000 per year.

If you're driving a classic car of more than 40 years of age, and it's registered for the historic tax class, you'll automatically be exempt without needing to do anything. However, if your vehicle is registered outside the UK and should be exempt, you will need to make that clear to the authorities.

Collector cars are considered property, so collector cars are often taxed. Capital gains tax on collectible cars have a flat 28% tax rate.

Key Takeaways. For the automotive enthusiast, one way to diversify an investment portfolio is to start collecting classic cars. Most cars lose value immediately after they are driven off of the dealer lot, but classic cars gain in value over time, due to rarity, performance, or special attributes.

Are classic cars considered an investment? ›

Classic cars fluctuate in value, but they can appreciate over time rather than depreciate like a modern car does.

Will Old Tyres Fail the MOT Test? There are currently no MOT rules surrounding tyre age for private passenger vehicles, but tyres over 10 years old at the time of the test will be failed if they are on any front steered axle, or any rear axle of a minibus with a single wheel fitment.

The vehicle becomes part of the Historic (classic) MOT and vehicle tax category. Please note there are exceptions such as your vehicle being used for commercial purposes. HMRC consider a car to be classic when it is over 15 years old with a market value greater than the list price and a minimum of £15,000.

Any car of any age can be driven on the UK roads as long is it is taxed (exempt if over 40 years old) insured and MoT tested (exempt if over 40 years old) but it must be roadworthy.

If you ship an inadmissible vehicle to Canada, your vehicle will be denied entry and you will be liable for all storage and disposal/re-export costs incurred. Transport Canada prohibit the importation of all foreign vehicles that are less than 15 years old.