Take a look at the history of MOTs and how they came into existence
The beginning
During the initial years, the amount of traffic in Britain was quite low. But post the second world war, the traffic grew quite rapidly. Moreover, it was observed that several vehicles that were travelling on the roads were not in a good condition. Especially the ones that were manufactured before the world war. Thus, pertaining to the deteriorating quality of vehicles, government was pressurized to take action.
The announcement In the year 1960, the transport minister Ernest Marples made an announcement that the cars that are more than 10 years old must have their lights, brakes and steering checked every year. And this is how MOT, also known as The Ministry of Transport test was born. Initially, it was also known as the 'ten-year test'.
European Union's involvement Ever since Britain became a part of European Union in the year 1993, several changes were implemented in the way MOTs are given. European Union has given certain minimum requirements which have to be fulfilled when the car goes for testing. All the countries that were members in EU have to adhere to the vehicle maintenance standards set by them.
Legalized testing stations At first when the tests were conducted, all the local garages were allowed to undertake it. But after few years, it was decided that only approved testing stations would be eligible to provide with assessment certificates. The area of Hull in the UK too, has several testing stations. If your car is not eligible to run on roads, get it tested now!