Van MOTs Explained: Class 4 or Class 7?

20 May 2026 · 6 min read

Why vans have different MOT classes

Cars and vans are not all tested in the same bay. The MOT is split into classes, and the class your vehicle falls into decides which test centres can test it.

For vans, the two classes that matter are Class 4 and Class 7. Which one yours needs depends on its design gross weight, not how big it looks or how much you usually carry.

Getting this right before you book saves a wasted trip. A test centre can only test the classes it is approved for.

Class 4: vans up to 3,000kg

Class 4 covers cars, and goods vehicles such as vans with a design gross weight of up to 3,000kg. That takes in most small and medium vans, and car-derived vans.

We test Class 4 vehicles here in Pelsall. If your van is 3,000kg or under, we can MOT it alongside the rest of your servicing and repairs.

The test itself covers the same main areas as a car MOT: lights, brakes, steering, suspension, tyres, seat belts, the body and structure, the exhaust and emissions, and the driver's view of the road. Like cars, a van needs its first MOT at three years old and then every year after that.

Class 7: vans from 3,001kg to 3,500kg

Class 7 covers goods vehicles with a design gross weight over 3,000kg and up to 3,500kg. Many larger panel vans, Luton vans and some heavier versions of popular models fall into this class.

For vans we only carry out Class 4 tests, so we cannot MOT a Class 7 van. If your van is over 3,000kg, it needs to go to a test centre approved for Class 7.

We can still service and repair a Class 7 van for you. It just needs its MOT done elsewhere.

How to check your van's weight

The design gross weight is the most the van is designed to weigh when fully loaded. It is usually shown on the manufacturer's plate, often found inside the driver's door frame or under the bonnet.

It may also be listed on your V5C logbook as the maximum permissible mass. Two vans of the same model can sit in different classes, because some are sold at a higher plated weight than others.

If you are not sure, give us a call with your registration and we will help you work out which class your van needs before you book.

Getting your van ready for its test

Vans work hard, so the usual wear points show up sooner: brakes, suspension, tyres and lights. Check every bulb, top up the screen wash and look at the tread on all four tyres.

Empty the load area if you can. The tester needs to see the inside of the body and the seat belts, and a van full of tools makes that harder.

If anything fails, we show you what and why, and give you a quote before any work starts.

Book a Class 4 van MOT

We are a family-run garage on Pelsall High Street, looking after vans for trades and businesses across Walsall. Keeping a working van off the road for as little time as possible matters, and we will give you a time that suits.

If your van is used every day for work, booking it in with its service can save you a second day off the road. We can look at both together and give you one clear quote for anything that needs doing.

Call us on 01922 682200 or book online to arrange your Class 4 van MOT.

Book a van MOT in Walsall →

Need help with your car?

Call Pelsall Village Garage for clear advice and a fast booking.

Call 01922 682200