Special notice 04-21: inspection manual and testing guide updates
Published 26 August 2021
Applies to England, Scotland and Wales
© Crown copyright 2021
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mot-special-notice-04-21-inspection-manual-and-testing-guide-updates/special-notice-04-21-inspection-manual-and-testing-guide-updates
1. MOT Inspection manual and new defects.
The MOT inspection manuals (all classes) will be updated on 26 August 2021.
The MOT testing guide will be updated on 1 September 2021.
2. What has changed
To read the full list of changes to the MOT inspection manuals, go to ‘see all updates’ in the blue box at the top of each MOT inspection manual on 26 August 2021.
To read the full list of changes in the MOT testing guide, go to the ‘change table’ on 1 September 2021.
3. Easing of coronavirus (COVID-19) guidance
In line with the recent easing of restrictions, this special notice is to officially withdraw SN 02-20 and to notify you that we have removed all our published COVID-19 guidance.
4. Inspection procedures (use of assistants)
An assistant must be used for all front suspension checks as per the MOT testing guide and inspection manual, regardless of whether a defect is suspected or not.
This does not apply to one person test lanes.
5. Test certificates
The requirement to issue a paper VT20 pass certificate will now be optional. You may continue to issue a paper copy if you wish however there is not a requirement to do so, unless the customer makes a specific request to have one.
A paper VT30 fail certificate must always be issued, including those generated as part of a PRS. Customers can download and print certificates from the Check MOT history service. They will need the vehicle registration number and the 11-digit V5C reference number.
6. MOT viewing areas and noticeboards
By 31 August 2021:
- MOT viewing areas must be reopened
- MOT noticeboards must be displayed where they can be easily read by anyone submitting vehicles for test