What a Class 7 MOT covers
Class 7 testing applies to goods vehicles between 3,000kg and 3,500kg design gross weight — the category most medium panel vans, campervan conversions, nine to twelve seat minibuses and many pickups fall into.
The test follows much the same structure as a Class 4 car test, but adds items that matter on a loaded commercial vehicle:
- Brake performance measured under laden conditions, with a higher efficiency requirement
- Seat belt anchorage and mounting points for every seat
- Chassis, suspension and load-bearing structure inspected for cracks and corrosion
- Doors, steps and load security, including tailgates and side doors
- Lighting and reflectors, including marker lights on larger vans
- Tyre condition and speed rating appropriate to the vehicle's plated weight
How often, and when
Class 7 vehicles need an MOT annually from three years old. The renewal date runs from the third anniversary of registration and stays on the same date each year afterwards.
Booking early is worth it: you can test up to a month minus a day before the due date and keep the same renewal date.
Not every station can test Class 7
Class 7 requires a wider test lane and heavier-rated equipment, so not every garage or testing station is authorised for it. Check the station's DVSA authorisation covers Class 7 before you book — turning up at a Class 4-only site wastes a day you may need for work.
Preparing for the test
Check lights and reflectors, tyre condition and pressures, wipers and washers, and that the windscreen is free of damage in the driver's view. Empty the load bay if you can, and make sure doors and tailgates latch properly.
Class 7 stations in Edinburgh
The garages listed below are DVSA-registered and shown with the classes they can test, so you can confirm Class 7 cover before booking.