The period before new cars and motor cycles require their first MoT test would be extended from three to four years, under proposals that would bring England, Wales and Scotland in line with Northern Ireland and many other European countries.

The date of a vehicle’s first MoT test was set at three years in 1967. Currently the owners of around 2.5m cars have to pay up to £54.85 to put their vehicle through their first MoT test each year.

‘Extending first MOT date to 4 years’ reflects the safer technology and improved manufacturing that keeps new vehicle roadworthy for longer: the number of 3 or 4 year old cars involved in accidents where a vehicle defect was a contributory factor has fallen from 155 in 2006 to 57 in 2015.

The consultation seeks views on whether the extension should apply to all vehicles or whether small vans should be excepted, as they are in Northern Ireland. Responses are required by 16 April and any changes will be implemented in 2018.