What Car? Q&A - MoTs and imports?

Q: What is the law regarding MoT testing on imported cars? I’ve bought a used Subaru Impreza that was originally an import, but I’m not sure when it should have its MoT. Can you help?
Paul Belfast

A: A new car’ first MoT is required three years after the date of registration. So a car registered from new on April 25, 2005 will require its first MoT no later than April 25, 2008.

If a car is used prior to registration, as a used import would be, the MoT will be required three years from the end of the year of manufacture. So a car manufactured at any time in 2002 will require an MoT no later than December 31, 2005.

It is important to remember that there are no grace periods given. You should arrange for your car to be tested before it is due, not after.