Guernsey cars will need to be up to scratch to remain on the roads

Wednesday 18 November 2020

We will soon have Guernsey’s answer to an MOT test, making periodic tests a legal requirement.

The decision to bring in mandatory technical inspections of Guernsey vehicles will bring us in line with both the UK and the EU, and will have us sign up to The Vienna Convention.

Pictured: It'll be our legal responsibility to make sure our cars are fit for our roads.

“We’ll be making sure that all motor vehicles on Guernsey roads are subject to a periodic test,” said Karl Guille, Director of Traffic and Highway Services.

“In this case it’ll be after five years and every three years thereafter for motor cars.”

An appropriate cost for testing has not been agreed yet, but it could be similar to the UK maximum of £55.

Pictured: Local industry will be putting forward tender applications in due course.

We could see a number of places in the island able to offer the inspection services required following it being put out to tender.

“It’s quite possible for a number of companies to come forward – they can offer to do all testing, just motorcycle testing, just commercial or just cars. We can potentially issue contracts for a variety of different suppliers.” 

Mr Guille concluded by saying that it will be very much a legal requirement.

“As the vehicle owner you are responsible for making sure your vehicle is roadworthy, and if it isn’t you are liable to be prosecuted.”

The tender process will take several months and people within the industry are hoping local businesses will be seriously considered for contracts. You can find the application for it online.

Pictured top: The decision has been made to make sure our cars are safe and able to be used on European and UK roads.