What are the mandatory requirements for owning an older car in the UK?

Okay, let's talk about keeping older cars on the road in the UK. Think of it like this: the government wants to make sure all vehicles are safe for both the driver and everyone else on the road. That's where the MOT test comes in. MOT stands for Ministry of Transport, and this test is an annual check-up for vehicles over three years old. It examines key components like brakes, lights, and steering to ensure they meet minimum safety standards. Without a valid MOT certificate, you're not legally allowed to drive your car. Now, the other crucial piece is car insurance. This is a legal requirement designed to protect you and others in case of an accident. If you cause damage or injury, your insurance helps cover the costs. So, a valid MOT and car insurance are the two non-negotiable things you need to legally own and drive an older car in the UK. While things like mortgages and life insurance are important, they aren't directly related to the legal requirements for owning a car.