A commercial vehicle must undergo its first MOT test after 4 years (petrol/electric) or 3 years (diesel). After that, an annual MOT test is mandatory. You may go for the test up to one month before the expiry date, allowing you to plan flexibly without disrupting your business operations.
When must a commercial vehicle undergo its first MOT test?
The first MOT test for a commercial vehicle depends on the engine type. Petrol and electric commercial vehicles must undergo their first MOT test after 4 years. Diesel commercial vehicles are required to undergo an MOT test after just 3 years.
These rules apply to all passenger cars used for business purposes, regardless of the brand. Whether you drive a Renault Kangoo, Peugeot Partner, or another commercial vehicle: the legislation makes no distinction between private and business use.
Different rules apply to second-hand commercial vehicles that you purchase. In this case, you must check the last MOT date. If it has expired or is about to expire, you must have a new test carried out immediately. During car maintenance, it is often checked whether your MOT is still valid.
Imported cars form a special category. These often must undergo an MOT test immediately after import, regardless of age. Always check the paperwork of an imported commercial vehicle to avoid surprises.
How often must you have an MOT test done after that?
After the first MOT test, your commercial vehicle must be tested again every year. This annual requirement applies to all commercial vehicles, regardless of brand or engine type. You can have a new test carried out up to one month before the expiry date.
For businesses with multiple vehicles, it pays to create a schedule. Spread the MOT dates throughout the year, so you don’t have to take all commercial vehicles out of circulation at the same time. This prevents problems during busy periods.
Forget the MOT test? Then you may no longer drive your commercial vehicle. The fine can amount to €390, plus you risk problems with your insurance. In case of an accident with an expired MOT, your insurer may recover the damage from you as an entrepreneur.
| Vehicle Type | First MOT | Thereafter |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol commercial vehicle | After 4 years | Annually |
| Diesel commercial vehicle | After 3 years | Annually |
| Electric commercial vehicle | After 4 years | Annually |
What happens if your commercial vehicle fails the MOT test?
If your commercial vehicle fails the MOT test, you receive a failure report listing all defects that must be repaired. You then have one month to carry out the repairs and have a retest done. Driving is only permitted for carrying out necessary repairs.
Defects are divided into minor and major faults. Minor defects don’t need to be repaired immediately, but they must be fixed by the next MOT. Major defects result in immediate failure and must be repaired within one month.
For the retest, you usually pay a reduced rate, as only the failed components are checked again. Many MOT stations offer discounts on retests if you have the repairs carried out with them.
The business use of your commercial vehicle is directly affected by a failed MOT. You may no longer drive for business purposes, which can disrupt your business operations. Therefore, always plan time for possible repairs around the MOT date.
Where is the best place to go for a commercial vehicle MOT?
For a commercial vehicle MOT, you can go to approved MOT testing stations, universal garages, and large chains. Universal garages often offer the best of both worlds: personal service combined with competitive prices and flexible scheduling.
Large chains usually charge standard rates and can schedule an appointment quickly. The disadvantage is often the impersonal approach and limited flexibility. For businesses with tight schedules, this can be problematic.
Universal garages often know their customers personally and can think along about scheduling. They usually have more experience with different brands and can directly advise on necessary repairs. This saves time and prevents surprises.
When choosing an MOT station, consider:
- The ability to make an appointment quickly
- Transparent prices without hidden costs
- The possibility for immediate repairs after failure
- Experience with your type of commercial vehicle
- Flexibility in scheduling for business vehicles
How Autobedrijf Verdonk helps with commercial vehicle MOT tests
We carry out MOT tests for all commercial vehicles and help you with smart scheduling that doesn’t disrupt your business operations. As an approved MOT specialist in Veldhoven, we understand that commercial vehicles must always be available for your business.
Our approach to commercial vehicle MOT tests:
- Flexible appointments that fit your schedule
- Immediate repairs possible after any failure
- Transparent prices without hidden costs
- Specialist knowledge of Renault, Peugeot, and Citroën commercial vehicles
- Complete service from MOT to maintenance under one roof
- Personal approach: we know you and your vehicles
Due to our location close to ASML, we serve many international companies with commercial vehicles. We communicate clearly and honestly, so you always know where you stand. Autobedrijf Verdonk also carries out maintenance and repairs for all other car brands.
Would you like to schedule your commercial vehicle MOT test or do you have questions about maintenance? Get in touch or visit us in Veldhoven. Read more about our history as a reliable partner for businesses in the region.