Regular inspections are crucial for maintaining road safety and ensuring the smooth operation of public transportation. One such inspection is the Class 6 MOT, which specifically applies to public service vehicles (PSVs). If you operate a PSV or are just curious about the process, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about this test—what it involves and why it’s important.
Class 6 is different than class 5 because it is for public vehicles instead of private ones.
What is a Class 6 MOT?
This is a mandatory inspection for public service vehicles (PSVs) in the UK. These vehicles include buses, coaches, and minibuses that transport passengers for hire or reward. The Class 6 MOT test ensures that these vehicles meet the required standards for safety, roadworthiness, and environmental compliance.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), the government body responsible for regulating and testing vehicles in the UK, carries out the Class 6 MOT. The inspection takes place at approved MOT test centres that specialize in PSV inspections.
Who Needs a Class 6 MOT?
If you own or operate a public service vehicle, you must have a Class 6 MOT carried out annually. This applies to:
- Buses: Any bus used for local public transport or long-distance travel that carries passengers for hire or reward requires this test.
- Coaches: Coaches used for private hire, tours, or travel must pass this test.
- Minibuses: Any minibus that transports passengers for a fare or as part of a public service needs to pass this inspection.
What Happens During a Class 6 MOT Test?
This test involves a comprehensive inspection to ensure that the vehicle is roadworthy and safe for public use. The inspection covers key areas such as:
- Vehicle Identification and Structure
- Lights and Electrical System
- Tyres and Suspension
- Brakes and Steering
- Exhaust and Emissions
- Doors and Emergency Exits
- Seats and Belts
- Visibility and Windscreen
Why is the Class 6 MOT Important?
The Class 6 MOT is essential for ensuring the safety, reliability, and environmental responsibility of public transport vehicles. Here’s why it matters:
- Passenger Safety: PSVs carry many people at once. The Class 6 MOT test ensures that every part of the vehicle, from the brakes to the emergency exits, functions properly to protect passengers.
- Roadworthiness: Regular testing ensures PSVs are roadworthy, reducing the risk of breakdowns or accidents caused by faulty parts.
- Compliance with Legislation: Public transport operators must comply with legal standards. Failing this test can result in fines or suspension of operations, so staying on top of inspections is vital.
- Environmental Standards: Modern tests assess the vehicle’s environmental impact, ensuring PSVs do not contribute to unnecessary pollution.
Class 6 MOT Cost: Is It Free?
The Class 6 MOT test is not free. Although the government oversees the process through the DVSA, the actual inspection occurs at approved test centres. These independent businesses charge a fee for their services.
How Much Does a Class 6 MOT Cost?
The cost varies depending on the test centre and the type of vehicle being inspected. In general:
- Class 6 MOT charges are higher than for private cars, due to the larger size and complexity of public service vehicles like buses and coaches.
- The average cost ranges from £100 to £150. The final price depends on the test centre’s location, the size of the vehicle, and any additional services or repairs needed.
Why the Charge?
While the DVSA sets the testing standards, the fees go to the MOT test centre. These centres invest in specialized equipment, training, and staff to conduct the inspections. The fees help cover:
- Personnel Costs: Qualified mechanics and testers are needed to perform inspections, especially for the complex systems in public service vehicles.
- Equipment and Facilities: Testing centres require specific equipment (such as brake testing machines and emissions testers) to inspect larger vehicles, and maintaining this equipment is costly.
- Administrative Costs: Booking, recording, and reporting test results take time and resources, contributing to the overall cost.
Is There Any Government Assistance or Subsidy?
The government does not provide direct financial support or subsidies for the cost of this test. However, the DVSA keeps MOT fees within a reasonable range to avoid placing an undue financial burden on public service vehicle operators.
Some local councils or transport authorities may offer subsidies or support for specific types of public transport, such as community buses or non-profit organizations operating minibuses for public or social services. If you operate such a vehicle, check with your local authority for any available financial assistance or special arrangements.
Where to Get a Class 6 MOT?
You can only get this test at DVSA-approved test centres. These centres have the specific equipment and expertise needed to inspect larger vehicles like buses and coaches. To avoid delays, it’s important to book your test appointment well in advance, especially if you operate a fleet of vehicles.
To find an approved centre, visit the UK government’s website to find one testing centre near your location.
Conclusion
This test is a vital process that ensures public service vehicles remain safe, reliable, and compliant with the law. By following regulations and staying on top of these inspections, PSV operators can provide a safer, more comfortable experience for passengers while ensuring that their vehicles are ready for the road. Whether you operate a single minibus or a fleet of coaches, maintaining your vehicle’s roadworthiness is essential for everyone’s safety.