The ultimate guide to MOT tests in the UK. Learn what an MOT is, when you need one, what's tested, how to prepare, and what happens if you fail.
The MOT test is a mandatory annual inspection that checks whether vehicles meet minimum road safety and environmental standards. MOT stands for "Ministry of Transport", the government department that introduced the testing scheme in 1960.
Every vehicle in the UK must pass an MOT test once it reaches three years old, and then annually thereafter. The test is conducted at approved MOT test centres by qualified examiners who assess your vehicle against strict criteria set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
MOT tests serve several critical purposes:
Road Safety: The primary goal is to ensure vehicles on UK roads are safe to drive. The test identifies dangerous defects that could cause accidents, protecting you, your passengers, and other road users.
Environmental Protection: MOT tests check emissions levels to ensure vehicles aren't polluting excessively. This helps the UK meet environmental targets and improves air quality, particularly in urban areas.
Legal Compliance: Driving without a valid MOT certificate is illegal and can result in fines up to £1,000. Your vehicle insurance may also be invalid without an MOT.
Vehicle Value: A good MOT history demonstrates your vehicle has been well-maintained, which helps preserve its resale value. Buyers check MOT records before purchasing used vehicles.
Understanding when your vehicle needs an MOT is crucial for staying legal and avoiding fines.
Cars and Vans: Your first MOT is due three years after the date of first registration. For example, a car first registered on 15 March 2022 needs its first MOT by 14 March 2025.
Motorcycles: Like cars, motorcycles need their first MOT three years after first registration.
Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs): These require their first MOT after one year.
After the first MOT, your vehicle needs testing every 12 months. You can get your MOT up to one month (minus a day) before the expiry date without losing any time on your certificate. The new expiry date will be 12 months from the existing expiry date.
Example: If your MOT expires on 20 January 2026, you can test from 21 December 2025. If you pass on 28 December 2025, your new expiry date will be 20 January 2027.
Some vehicles are exempt from MOT testing:
Historic Vehicles: Vehicles manufactured or first registered more than 40 years ago are exempt, provided they haven't been substantially changed in the previous 30 years.
Electric Goods Vehicles: Used solely on roads under the Electricity Act.
Steam-Powered Vehicles: Although these rarely appear on modern roads.
However, even if your vehicle is exempt, it must still be maintained in a roadworthy condition. Police can issue prohibition notices if they find defects.
No - this is a common misconception. There is no official grace period for driving without an MOT. The moment your MOT expires, driving your vehicle on public roads becomes illegal, except:
An MOT test is comprehensive and covers numerous safety-critical components. Understanding what's checked helps you prepare and identify potential issues.
Lights and Electrical Equipment
Steering and Suspension
Brakes
Tyres and Wheels
Body and Structure
Exhaust and Emissions
Fuel System
Mirrors and Windscreen
Horn
Registration Plates
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It's important to know what an MOT doesn't cover:
An MOT is a safety and emissions test, not a service or condition check. A vehicle can pass an MOT but still have mechanical issues that need attention.
Since May 2018, MOT test results use a categorisation system for defects:
Severity: Immediate risk to road safety or serious environmental impact.
Action Required: The vehicle must not be driven until repaired. It's illegal to drive with dangerous defects.
Examples:
Result: Automatic MOT failure. You must arrange repairs immediately and cannot drive the vehicle except directly to a repair garage.
Severity: May affect vehicle safety or have a significant environmental impact.
Action Required: Must be repaired and vehicle retested.
Examples:
Result: MOT failure. Repairs required before retest.
Severity: No significant effect on vehicle safety or environment.
Action Required: Should be repaired soon but not urgent.
Examples:
Result: MOT pass with advisory. These don't cause failure but should be addressed to prevent them becoming major issues.
Purpose: To inform you about items that are not yet defects but may deteriorate and require attention in the future.
Action Required: Monitor and consider for next service.
Examples:
Result: MOT pass. These are notes for your awareness and future planning.
Proper preparation can help you pass first time and avoid costly repairs.
Check Your MOT Expiry Date: Don't rely on memory. Check your current MOT certificate or use the DVSA's online service to verify when your MOT expires.
Review Your MOT History: Look at previous test results to identify recurring issues. If advisories were noted, get them checked and fixed before they become failures.
Budget for Repairs: Set aside funds for potential repairs. The average MOT failure costs between £40-£200 to fix, though complex issues can cost more.
Perform Basic Checks:
Lights: Turn on all lights and walk around the vehicle. Check headlights, brake lights, indicators, fog lights, and number plate lights. Replace any blown bulbs.
Tyres: Check tread depth using a 20p coin. Insert it into the tread grooves - if you can see the outer band, your tread is too low. Look for cuts, bulges, or damage. Check all tyres are correctly inflated.
Windscreen: Inspect for chips or cracks. Damage larger than 10mm in the driver's view zone (the area swept by the wipers directly in front of the driver) will cause failure.
Wipers and Washers: Ensure wipers work properly and aren't worn. Top up washer fluid.
Horn: Test it works (somewhere appropriate).
Mirrors: Check all required mirrors are present and secure.
Seat Belts: Ensure all belts work properly and aren't frayed or damaged.
Fluid Levels: Check brake fluid is between minimum and maximum marks.
Registration Plates: Ensure they're clean, legible, and securely fitted.
Clear Your Vehicle:
Prepare Documentation:
You can easily fix these common failure points yourself:
Replace Bulbs: Cost £5-15. Takes 5-10 minutes. Most modern cars have easily accessible bulb holders.
Wiper Blades: Cost £10-20. Takes 5 minutes. Simply unclip old blades and clip new ones on.
Washer Fluid: Cost £3-5. Takes 2 minutes. Top up the blue-capped reservoir under the bonnet.
Number Plate: Cost £10-15. Takes 5 minutes. Replace damaged plates with legal compliant ones.
Tyre Pressure: Free at most petrol stations. Takes 5 minutes. Check your car's manual or door pillar for correct pressures.
Understanding the test process removes uncertainty and helps you know what to expect.
A standard MOT test typically takes 30-60 minutes for a car, though it can vary based on:
1. Vehicle Identification (2-3 minutes) The examiner checks:
2. Interior Checks (5-10 minutes)
3. Exterior and Lights (5-10 minutes)
4. Under Vehicle Inspection (10-15 minutes) Vehicle raised on lift for examination of:
5. Wheel and Tyre Checks (5-10 minutes)
6. Brake Test (5 minutes) Vehicle driven onto brake roller tester:
7. Emissions Test (5-10 minutes)
8. Final Checks (2-3 minutes)
If You Pass:
If You Fail:
Approximately 35% of vehicles fail their first MOT test. Here's how to handle it.
The VT30 refusal certificate lists all defects found. For each defect you'll see:
Type: Dangerous, Major, or Minor Location: Where on the vehicle Description: What the problem is Manual Reference: DVSA manual section number
You can get a free partial retest if:
Eligible for Free Retest: Light bulbs, wiper blades, horn, minor adjustments
Not Eligible (Full Fee Required): Brake discs, suspension components, major welding
If you return after 10 working days, you'll pay the full test fee again.
Option 1: Test Centre Repairs Many MOT centres offer repairs. Advantages: Convenient, quick retest. Disadvantages: May be more expensive, limited choice.
Option 2: Independent Garage Take the vehicle elsewhere for repairs. Advantages: Shop around for quotes, choose trusted mechanic. Disadvantages: Need to return to original test centre for free retest.
Option 3: DIY Repairs For simple failures. Advantages: Save money. Disadvantages: Need knowledge and tools, must be confident in repair quality.
For major failures:
Partial Retest: Only failed items checked. Quicker and (within 10 days) free.
Full Retest: Entire vehicle tested again. Required if major repairs undertaken or 10-day window expires.
Your VT20 certificate contains:
Since 2005, all MOT results have been stored electronically by the DVSA. These records include:
Why This Matters:
You can check any vehicle's MOT history free at:
You'll need the vehicle's registration number. Results show instantly.
The DVSA sets maximum fees that test centres can charge:
Test centres can charge less than these maximums, but not more.
Compare Local Centres: Prices vary significantly. Call several centres to compare.
Chain Garages Often Discount: Halfords, Kwik Fit, and similar chains frequently offer promotional MOT prices (sometimes as low as £25-35).
Book Online for Discounts: Many centres offer online booking discounts.
Avoid Peak Times: Prices may be lower mid-week or mid-month when demand is lower.
Watch for Promotions: Garages often run promotions around typical MOT due dates (anniversary of first registration + 3 years).
Retest Fees: If you fail and miss the 10-day window, you'll pay full fee again.
Repair Costs: Average failure repair costs £40-200, but can be much higher for major issues.
Diagnostic Fees: Some issues may require diagnosis before repair, adding £30-80.
Parts Costs: Quality affects price significantly. OEM parts cost more than pattern parts but may last longer.
Based on DVSA data, these are the top failure reasons:
Common Issues:
Prevention:
DIY Fix: Most bulb replacements take 5-10 minutes and cost £5-15.
Common Issues:
Prevention:
Repair Cost: £100-400 per component depending on vehicle.
Common Issues:
Prevention:
Repair Cost: Brake pads and discs: £80-200 per axle.
Common Issues:
Prevention:
Replacement Cost: £50-150 per tyre depending on size and brand.
Common Issues:
Prevention:
Repair Cost: DPF cleaning £80-200, replacement £500-2,000.
Common Issues:
Prevention:
Repair Cost: Wipers £10-20, windscreen £50-200+ depending on vehicle and insurance.
MOT and vehicle tax are closely linked:
You Cannot Tax Without Valid MOT: The DVLA system checks for valid MOT before allowing taxation. Exception: Vehicles registered before 1960 (tax exempt but still need MOT unless 40+ years old).
Automatic Check: When you tax online, the system automatically verifies your MOT status.
SORN: If you keep a vehicle off-road, you can declare SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) and don't need MOT or tax.
Online: Visit gov.uk/vehicle-tax. You'll need your V11 reminder letter reference number or V5C registration certificate.
Post Office: Some Post Offices offer vehicle tax services. Bring your MOT certificate.
By Phone: Call DVLA on 0300 123 4321.
The system checks the MOT database automatically, so you don't need to provide your MOT certificate for online renewal.
Different vehicles have different requirements:
Class 4 Vehicles include:
First MOT: 3 years after first registration Frequency: Annual Test Fee: Maximum £54.85 Test Duration: 30-60 minutes
Class 1 (up to 200cc) and Class 2 (over 200cc)
First MOT: 3 years after first registration Frequency: Annual Test Fee: Maximum £29.65 (Class 1) or £37.80 (Class 2)
Special Checks:
Class 7 (vans 3,000kg-3,500kg)
Heavy Goods Vehicles (over 3,500kg)
Vehicles 40+ years old:
Understanding the relationship between MOT and insurance is crucial:
Yes - potentially. Insurance policies typically require vehicles to be roadworthy and legally compliant. Driving without valid MOT breaks the law, which may:
Invalidate Your Insurance: Some insurers can refuse claims if you're driving illegally without MOT.
Reduce Claim Payout: Even if they pay, they may reduce the amount if lack of MOT contributed to the incident.
Affect Renewal: Insurers may refuse to renew or increase premiums if you've driven without MOT.
Third Party Claims: Your insurance should still cover damage you cause to others (legally required).
Your Own Vehicle: Your insurer may refuse to pay for repairs to your car.
Personal Injury: Claims for your injuries may be reduced or refused.
Increased Costs: You may face:
Never Risk It: The potential costs far outweigh the MOT test fee of around £50.
Book Early: Schedule your MOT up to a month before expiry so you don't forget.
Set Reminders: Use your phone or email to remind you well in advance.
Yes, you can drive to a pre-booked MOT appointment even if your current MOT has expired. However:
You can drive home or directly to a garage for repairs after failing your MOT unless:
With dangerous defects, the vehicle must be transported, not driven.
No. MOT tests don't check service history, service intervals, or whether the vehicle has been serviced. It's purely a safety and emissions test.
Check your MOT certificate: The expiry date is printed on it.
Online: Use the government's free service at gov.uk/check-mot-history with your registration number.
Our Service: Use Free MOT Check for easy-to-read results.
No. Advisory items don't cause MOT failure. They're for your information about items that may need attention in the future.
A battery itself isn't tested in an MOT. However, a weak battery can cause:
Replace a failing battery before MOT testing.
Yes. Plates must be:
Non-compliant plates cause failure.
Regular MOT testing keeps you legal, safe, and helps maintain your vehicle's value. Key takeaways:
Plan Ahead: Book your MOT up to a month before expiry to allow time for any repairs.
Prepare Properly: Simple checks before testing can prevent failures and save money.
Keep Records: Your MOT history helps when selling and identifies recurring issues.
Don't Delay: Driving without valid MOT risks fines, invalidates insurance, and endangers safety.
Use Official Services: Always use approved MOT test centres. Find them on the DVSA website.
By understanding the MOT process and requirements, you'll maintain a safe, legal, and valuable vehicle that serves you well for years to come.
Need to check your MOT history? Use our free service to access complete MOT records for any UK vehicle including test results, defects, advisories, and expiry dates - all sourced from the official DVSA database.
Dive deeper into specific aspects of MOT testing with our detailed guides:
Complete guide to driving without an MOT certificate in the UK. Learn about fines, penalties, legal exceptions, and what to do if your MOT has expired.
PreparationComplete pre-MOT checklist to help you prepare your vehicle and pass first time. Learn what to check before your MOT test and simple DIY fixes you can do yourself.
Getting StartedLearn everything about MOT tests - what MOT stands for, why it's required, when you need one, and what gets checked during the annual vehicle inspection.
Getting StartedLearn exactly when your vehicle needs an MOT test. Understand first MOT requirements, annual testing rules, exemptions, and how to check your MOT due date.
MOT BasicsMOT costs up to �54.85 for cars in 2025. Find average prices by region, free MOT deals explained, retest costs, and money-saving tips for UK drivers.
MOT BasicsFind out when your MOT is due with our free checker. Learn MOT frequency rules, avoid the �1,000 fine, and understand why there's no grace period.
MOT Basics40% of UK vehicles fail their MOT. Learn the top 10 failure reasons based on 2025 DVSA data, average repair costs, and how to prepare your car to pass first time.