Moto and L category
Older vehicles in category L must also undergo a roadworthiness test before they can be re-registered.
This test will, of course, be adapted to the specific features arising from the age of the vehicles concerned, along the same lines as the roadworthiness test for “ancestor” cars.
The vehicle must, of course, be technically sound, in accordance with the regulations applicable at the time of production.
When it comes to vehicle customization, three scenarios must be considered:
– A conversion carried out directly “ex-factory” (often by the dealership), accompanied by any appropriate documentation.
This type of customization is generally carried out using approved parts, installed according to industry standards, under the manufacturer’s responsibility. There is every reason to believe that this scenario will lead to acceptance of the conversion and therefore the issuance of a proper registration application by the MOT.
However, it is important to remember that some parts, even those coming directly from the manufacturer, are not intended for installation on vehicles intended for public roads. They are sometimes reserved for track use, for example.
– A “handmade” conversion, carried out by a professional or by the owner themselves, could also be acceptable, if it is carried out according to industry standards and if the vehicle is technically sound. The “rules of the trade,” in this case, require:
• Robust, durable, and high-quality assembly of the parts concerned; any welds must not be likely to create subsequent weaknesses in the various structural elements of the vehicle;
• The absence of driving obstructions (reduced steering angles, cables or lines under tension, free movement of controls, unrestricted access, etc.);
• Full visibility must be maintained, both in terms of the driver’s field of vision and the regulatory lights;
• No increased risk to passengers and other road users (sharp edges, roughness, extensions outside the vehicle’s original dimensions, etc.).
Approval of the parts concerned is only required for lights, turn signals, reflectors, and rearview mirrors. However, the other parts used must be duly designed for their intended use. The additional lights must be able to be turned off using a switch separate from the standard lights.
– “Heavily converted” vehicles will not be accepted without additional checks.
A stand-alone approval may therefore be required. This procedure may be initiated at an inspection station, but will be handled by the competent SPW services, with no prior guarantee of success.
Furthermore, it is important to remember that the year the vehicle was first put into service and the type of initial approval (European, Belgian, stand-alone, etc.) can have a significant impact on the final decision to approve or reject a conversion.
In case of doubt, it is always possible to request prior approval by presenting the vehicle and its documents to one of our stations authorized for Category L inspections on a day scheduled for these inspections.
Here are a few easy, do-it-yourself preliminary checks that will save you a revisit:
Make sure you have the required documents:
- Certificate of conformity
- Old registration certificate (both sides!)
- Conversion certificates, if any
Locate and make visible
- Chassis number
- Official manufacturer’s plate
Check
Functioning of all bulbs
- General condition and wear of tires
- Make sure your license plate bracket is securely attached and not tilted too much (max 30°).
Bring the vehicle up to temperature
- For the pollution test
- For the noise test