Not every vehicle takes the same MOT. The test class depends on the type of vehicle, its weight and how many passenger seats it has. Here's a quick guide to the three classes we test at CFM.
Class 4
Class 4 is the most common MOT. It covers:
- cars and motor caravans;
- goods vehicles up to 3,000kg design gross weight, such as most small and medium vans;
- taxis, and private passenger vehicles and ambulances with up to 12 passenger seats.
Class 5
Class 5 covers private passenger vehicles and ambulances with more than 12 passenger seats — typically larger minibuses.
Class 7
Class 7 is for goods vehicles over 3,000kg and up to 3,500kg design gross weight. Many large panel vans, Luton vans and dropsides fall into this class. You'll find the design gross weight on the vehicle's plate, usually inside the door frame or under the bonnet.
When is the first MOT due?
Most cars and vans need their first MOT three years after registration. Vehicles with more than eight passenger seats, taxis and ambulances need their first MOT one year after registration.
You can have an MOT up to a month (minus a day) before your current certificate runs out and keep the same renewal date.
What about heavier vehicles?
Goods vehicles and trailers over 3,500kg don't have an MOT — they take an annual test instead. We run a two-lane DVSA Authorised Testing Facility on the same site, so we can look after those too.
Book your MOT
CFM is a DVSA-approved vehicle testing station for Class 4, 5 and 7 MOTs, with a workshop on site for any repairs. Call us or send an enquiry to book.
