Class 3 MOTs Explained

Everyone who’s on the road has either had, will have to put their car through an MOT test once their vehicle is more than three years old.

What some people might not know, is there’s different MOT procedures for different vehicle types – these are divided by “MOT classes”.

Class 4 MOTs are the most common test for the likes of passenger cars and light vans, as well as Class 7 MOTs which covers vehicles that weigh over 3,000kg (Design Gross Weight).

But what vehicles are covered in a Class 3 MOT? That’s what we’ll be exploring below.

Class 3 MOT

A Class 3 MOT is a test designed for three-wheeled vehicles.

The test itself follows the same principle as any other MOT, ensuring the vehicle is safe, roadworthy, and compliant with DVSA standards.

However, the inspection criteria are tailored to suit the unique design and handling characteristics of three-wheelers.

What Is the Weight Limit for Class 3 MOTs?

Class 3 MOTs apply to three-wheelers that weigh more than 350kg but no more than 450kg in DGW.

Anything below this weight limit typically doesn’t require a test, while three-wheelers above 450kg will fall into the Class 4 MOT category instead.

Class 3 Vehicle Types

Because they apply only to three-wheelers within this specific weight range, Class 3 MOTs cover a fairly narrow set of vehicles.

These usually include:

• Three-wheeled cars
• Three-wheeled motorcycles (also known as motor tricycles)
  

Three-Wheeled Cars

Certain small three-wheeled cars are covered under Class 3 MOTs.

These vehicles, often lightweight and compact, must undergo the same safety checks as other vehicles but adapted to their size and design.

Once their weight exceeds 450kg, however, they move into the Class 4 MOT category – the same as standard passenger cars.

Three-Wheeled Motorcycles

Motor tricycles and three-wheeled motorcycles also fall under Class 3 MOTs, as long as their DGW stays between 350kg and 450kg.

It’s important to note that motorcycles with sidecars do not come under Class 3. Instead, they fall under Class 2 MOT testing.

Meanwhile, heavier motor tricycles over 450kg are tested under Class 4.

What Is the Cost of a Class 3 MOT?

The maximum DVSA-set fee for a Class 3 MOT is £37.80.

This fee only covers the MOT test itself. If your three-wheeled vehicle fails and needs repairs or replacement parts, additional costs will apply before a pass certificate can be issued.

At present, Blackcircles.com only offers Class 4 MOT bookings and does not currently cover Class 3 MOTs.