Cyprus proposes extended MOT intervals for rental vehicles

The Cyprus Road Transport Department has initiated a public consultation process regarding proposed amendments to vehicle inspection regulations. The current proposal seeks to extend the interval for the first mandatory technical inspection (MOT) for rental passenger cars (category M1) and light goods vehicles (category N1) from two years to three years from their initial registration date.

Following the first inspection, these vehicles would continue to be subject to annual testing. This initiative was launched in response to a formal request from the Cyprus Car Rental Owners Association, which argued that the adjustment accounts for the actual usage and mileage of newer rental vehicles. Officials state that the measure aims to reduce administrative burdens and costs for rental companies. It is explicitly clarified that these changes will not apply to private, non-rental vehicles, which will remain under the existing regime of a first inspection after four years and biennial testing thereafter.

The proposal has not yet taken legal effect, as it remains subject to the formal approval process following the conclusion of the public consultation period.