It maybe mandatory for it to be deemed roadworthy for a newer vehicle, but not required on an older vehicle. e.g. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mot-inspection-m

It maybe mandatory for it to be deemed roadworthy for a newer vehicle, but not required on an older vehicle. e.g. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mot-inspection-manual-for-private-passenger-and-light-commercial-vehicles/4-lamps-reflectors-and-electrical-equipment#section-4-6-1 https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mot-inspection-manual-for-privat... > You must inspect all reversing lamps fitted to vehicles first used from 1 September 2009 other than quadricycles and three-wheeled vehicles. Older vehicles don't require a reverse light. My P-reg vehicle (1996?) didn't have a working reverse lamp, but passed the MOT. I have since fixed it.