Is the annual MOT marathon looming?
Fans of classic cars could breathe a sigh of relief at the end of 2025: the EU Commission had proposed that all cars over ten years old should be presented for a general inspection (HU) every year in future - twice as often as before.
This would have affected practically every classic vehicle. After all, our beloved oldies are all „over 30“ and therefore well past the ten-year mark.
The idea caused nervous twitching in many a garage: Do we now have to present our gleaming chrome treasures to the TÜV inspector every year? Will the classic car season be marred by additional appointment stress?
All-clear from Brussels for now
For now, we can give the all-clear. In December 2025, the EU transport ministers said no to this initiative. The main argument: a disproportionate burden for car owners - both financially and in terms of time.
For classic car enthusiasts, this means that the dreaded annual MOT marathon is off the table for the time being.
However, we have not yet fully breathed a sigh of relief. The discussion is still ongoing, as the EU Parliament is still debating. In the end, the Commission, Parliament and Member States will have to find a compromise. It is therefore advisable to keep a watchful eye on the EU ticker - but please don't panic.
What do classic car associations say?
The reaction of the classic car associations was unequivocal: Rejection across the board. Their arguments are plausible - and sometimes charmingly formulated.
Classic cars are not endurance racers
Classic cars are usually only driven in good weather and on special occasions. A drive here, a meeting there. On average, classic cars cover around 1,000 to 2,000 kilometres per year - significantly less than everyday vehicles.
Many oldies spend more time under the car cover than on the road. The obvious question is: do we really need twice as many tests for vehicles that are so rarely on the road?
Well-maintained treasures instead of problem vehicles
Classic cars are collectors' vehicles. Their owners put their heart and soul into maintaining them: oil changes, valve clearance, chrome care. Technical defects as the cause of accidents? Almost never.
One large insurance company even reported that not a single accident caused by a technical defect in classic cars is known. The safety benefits of additional tests would therefore be minimal - but the bureaucracy and costs would be real.
Cultural heritage on wheels
Classic cars are cultural assets on wheels. Associations regularly emphasise that historic vehicles are part of our technical heritage.
A 50-year-old Benz or Beetle tells a story. The scene firmly rejects generalised suspicion. Major automobile clubs also share this view.
The „H“ stands for history – and hope
One letter keeps cropping up in the debate: the H. The H licence plate is the official history seal for vehicles over 30 years old in good, original condition.
It brings advantages such as flat-rate tax, often cheaper insurance and free travel in low emission zones. Above all, however, it signals that this vehicle is a cultural asset worth preserving.
H licence plate as a protective shield
The EU proposals expressly provide for exemptions for historic vehicles. Germany would have room for manoeuvre to exempt H-vehicles from new inspection obligations.
As things stand at present, there are no plans to touch the H licence plate. In fact, the scene continues to grow: more and more vehicles are reaching classic car age and the number of H licence plates is steadily increasing.
Where are we going?
The next round of discussions at EU level is due in 2026. If new regulations are introduced, they will first have to be implemented at national level - with exceptions for classic cars.
It is even conceivable that classic cars will ultimately remain in the same position as before. Some even hope for longer inspection intervals. Why not a five-year MOT for classic cars?
Conclusion: A positive outlook for the future
A general annual MOT for classic cars is currently unlikely. The H licence plate remains a strong protective instrument.
Vigilance still makes sense - panic does not. Classic cars are more than just old cars. They are history on wheels. And this history will not be slowed down so easily.