MOT tests are to be suspended for six months - although the move will not come into force until 30 March - the Government has announced this morning (Weds).

That means drivers with an MOT that expires before Monday, who need to use their vehicle, will need to get their vehicle tested to stay legal on the road.

The six-month exemption will enable vehicle owners to continue to travel to work, where this absolutely can not be done from home, or shop for necessities.

All cars, vans and motorcycles which usually would require an MOT test will be exempted from 30 March.

But vehicles must be kept in a roadworthy condition and garages will remain open for essential repair work.

Drivers can be prosecuted if caught driving unsafe vehicles.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: "We must ensure those on the frontline of helping the nation combat COVID19 are able to do so.

"Allowing this temporary exemption from vehicle testing will enable vital services such as deliveries to continue, frontline workers to get to work, and people get essential food and medicine.

"Safety is key, which is why garages will remain open for essential repair work."

Legislation will be introduced on 30 March and will come into immediate effect for 12 months.

If you can't get an MOT that's due because you're in self-isolation, the Department for Transport is working with insurers and the police to ensure people aren't unfairly penalised for matters out of their control.

Practical driving tests and annual testing for lorries, buses and coaches have been suspended for up to three months.