The Complete MOT Test Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding the MOT Testing Process

The MOT test follows a structured, systematic process designed to thoroughly assess your vehicle's safety and environmental compliance. Understanding what happens during testing removes uncertainty and helps you prepare effectively.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every stage of the MOT process, from booking your appointment to receiving your results, explaining exactly what examiners check and how they assess your vehicle.

Before the Test: Booking Your MOT

Finding an MOT Test Centre

Approved Test Centres: MOT tests must be conducted at DVSA-approved test centres by qualified examiners. You can find approved centres through:

Gov.uk MOT Centre Finder: Official DVSA service listing all approved centres
Garage Websites: Most garages display their approval number
Local Searches: Search "MOT test near me" for local options
Recommendations: Ask friends and family for trusted centres

What to Look For:

DVSA approval number clearly displayed
Good customer reviews
Transparent pricing
Convenient location
Availability matching your schedule

Comparing Test Centres

Price: Test centres can charge up to £54.85 for cars but many charge less. Compare prices:

Independent garages often charge full price
Chain garages frequently offer promotions (£25-40)
Online booking sometimes includes discounts

Reputation: Check reviews for:

Fairness in testing
Clear communication about failures
Reasonable repair pricing
Customer service quality
Pressure to buy additional services

Convenience:

Location and parking
Opening hours
Waiting facilities
While-you-wait service availability
Collection and delivery options

Booking Your Appointment

Timing:

Book 2-4 weeks in advance for popular centres
Can test up to one month (minus a day) before expiry without losing time
Mid-week and mid-month often quieter with better availability
Avoid March/September (registration anniversary peaks)

Information Needed:

Vehicle registration number
Make and model
Current mileage
Contact details
Preferred date and time

Booking Methods:

Online: Often easiest with instant confirmation
Phone: Speak directly to centre
In Person: Visit the garage

Confirmation: Get written confirmation including:

Test date and time
Location and directions
Price agreed
What to bring
Cancellation policy

Timing Your MOT

Early Testing Benefits:

Allows time for repairs if you fail
Avoids last-minute stress
Better centre availability
No loss of time on certificate

Example: MOT expires 20 March 2026. You test on 25 February 2026 and pass. New expiry date: 20 March 2027 (not 25 February 2027).

Late Testing Risks:

Illegal driving if you miss expiry
Rush fees at some centres
Limited appointment availability
No time for repairs if you fail

Preparing Your Vehicle

What to Bring

Essential:

Vehicle keys
Payment method (cash/card)
Registration number (memorized or written down)

Helpful But Not Required:

V5C registration document
Previous MOT certificate
List of known issues to mention
Service history (shows care)

Pre-Test Preparation

The Day Before:

Clean Your Vehicle:

Wash exterior thoroughly
Clean windows inside and out
Clear dashboard and windscreen area
Remove unnecessary items
Vacuum interior

Why Cleaning Matters:

Dirt can hide defects from examiner
Shows you care for the vehicle
Makes VIN plate readable
Allows clear inspection of components
Professional appearance

Check Basics:

All lights working
Tyre pressures correct
Washer fluid topped up
No obvious damage
Fuel level sufficient (quarter tank minimum)

On Test Day:

Arrive 10-15 minutes early
Bring confirmation details
Inform receptionist of any known issues
Remove valuable items
Note mileage

The MOT Test: Detailed Step-by-Step Process

Test Duration

Typical Timing:

Standard car: 30-60 minutes
Motorcycle: 20-40 minutes
Larger vehicles: 45-90 minutes

Duration Varies Based On:

Vehicle type and complexity
Vehicle age and condition
Cleanliness and accessibility
Defects found requiring investigation
Test centre workload
Examiner experience

While-You-Wait: Many centres offer waiting areas. Alternatively, you can leave the vehicle and return later.

Stage 1: Vehicle Identification and Registration (5 minutes)

Purpose: Verify the vehicle matches documentation and DVSA records.

What the Examiner Checks:

Registration Plate:

Number matches booking
Correct format and spacing
Legible and undamaged
Securely fixed
Reflective (rear plate)
Correct font (legal style)

VIN (Vehicle Identification Number):

Readable and matches records
Usually located on dashboard near windscreen
Also on door pillar or under bonnet
Must be clearly visible

Vehicle Details Verification:

Make and model correct
Colour matches records
Number of seats accurate
Vehicle category appropriate
First registration date correct

Odometer Reading:

Current mileage recorded
Compared to previous MOT readings
Significant discrepancies investigated
Recorded on certificate

Why This Matters: Ensures you're testing the correct vehicle and creates accurate historical records that help detect mileage fraud.

Stage 2: Interior Checks (10-15 minutes)

The examiner enters the vehicle and systematically checks interior components.

Dashboard and Controls

Ignition On (Engine Off):

All warning lights illuminate (normal)
Check lights include: engine, ABS, airbag, brake, oil, battery

Engine Started:

Warning lights must extinguish within reasonable time
Engine management light staying on = FAIL
ABS warning light staying on = FAIL
Airbag warning light staying on = FAIL
Brake warning light staying on = FAIL

Dashboard Condition:

No sharp edges or dangerous protrusions
Speedometer working
Odometer functional and readable

Steering

Steering Wheel:

Securely mounted
No excessive play
Condition acceptable (no sharp edges)
Rotates freely

Steering Column:

Secure mounting
No excessive movement
Lock mechanism works
No sharp edges exposed

Power Steering:

Operates correctly
No unusual noises
Adequate assistance
Fluid level adequate (if visible)

Test Method: Examiner turns wheel lock-to-lock, checks for play, feels for resistance, listens for unusual sounds.

Seats and Seat Belts

Front Seats:

Securely mounted to floor
Adjustment mechanisms work
Runners secure and functional
Backrest locks in position
No sharp edges or protrusions

Rear Seats:

Secure mounting
Folding mechanisms work properly
Backrest secure

Seat Belts (All Positions):

Present where required
Webbing condition good (no fraying, cuts)
Buckle functions properly (clicks securely)
Retractor works (belt retracts smoothly)
Inertia mechanism operates (locks when pulled sharply)
Mounting points secure
Pre-tensioners not deployed

Test Method: Examiner pulls each belt fully out, checks webbing condition, tests buckle operation, checks retraction, tests inertia lock.

Horn

Check:

Operates from steering wheel/stalk
Produces clear, continuous tone
Audible from reasonable distance
Single tone (not multi-tone)

Test Method: Examiner presses horn button and listens.

Handbrake

Operation Check:

Engages and releases smoothly
Holds vehicle on slope
Ratchet mechanism works
Reasonable effort required
Sufficient reserve clicks

Test Method: Applied and released multiple times, checked during brake efficiency test.

Foot Brake Pedal

Checks:

Rubber present and secure
Pedal not excessively worn
Returns properly when released
Firm feel (not spongy)
Adequate reserve travel
No leaks visible

Test Method: Pressed multiple times, checked for feel and return.

Stage 3: Exterior Lighting and Signalling (10-15 minutes)

Headlights (Main and Dipped Beam):

Checks:

Both headlights operate on main beam
Both operate on dipped beam
Correct beam pattern
No damaged or missing reflectors
Lenses not broken or badly faded
Aim within acceptable range
Correct colour (white or yellow)
Secure mounting

Test Method:

Lights switched on in darkened area
Visual inspection of operation
Beam aim measured using optical equipment
Lenses inspected for damage

Beam Aim Testing: Headlights aimed at specialized screen/device. If aim is too high (dazzling) or too low (insufficient illumination), it's a failure.

Sidelights (Parking Lights):

Front sidelights operate
Rear sidelights operate
Correct colour (front white, rear red)
Adequate brightness
Lenses intact

Brake Lights:

All brake lights illuminate when pedal pressed
Correct colour (red)
Adequate brightness
Equal brightness both sides
High-level brake light works (if fitted)
Lenses not damaged

Test Method: Assistant presses brake pedal while examiner observes.

Indicators:

Front indicators flash amber
Side indicators flash amber (if fitted)
Rear indicators flash amber
Flash rate correct (60-120 flashes per minute)
All indicators on each side flash together
Dash indicator light works

Hazard Lights:

All four corners flash together
Dash warning light operates
Flash rate correct

Rear Fog Lights:

Operate when switched on
Correct colour (red)
Adequate brightness
Dash warning light works
Only rear fog lights (front fogs not tested for operation)

Front Fog Lights (if fitted):

Checked for condition only
Not required to operate

Reversing Lights (if fitted):

Operate when reverse selected
Correct colour (white)

Number Plate Lights:

Illuminate rear number plate adequately
Even illumination
Correct colour (white)

Stage 4: Mirrors and Glass (5 minutes)

Mirrors:

Legal Requirements:

Driver's exterior mirror (right side in UK)
One other mirror (usually interior rearview)

Checks:

Required mirrors present
Securely mounted
Glass not cracked or damaged
Adequate view provided
Adjustment mechanism works

Windscreen:

Damage Assessment:

Zone A (300mm wide, in front of driver): Damage max 10mm diameter
Zone B (rest of swept area): Damage max 40mm diameter
Any crack anywhere = likely fail

Other Checks:

No delamination
Not excessively tinted
No obstruction to driver's view
Securely mounted

Windows:

Driver's window opens (for examiner access to controls)
No sharp edges
Not excessively tinted (front)

Stage 5: Under-Vehicle Inspection (15-20 minutes)

The vehicle is raised on a lift for underneath examination.

Exhaust System:

Checks:

No holes or serious corrosion
Secure mounting (no excessive movement)
Not leaking gases
Complete system present
Catalytic converter present (if originally fitted)
DPF present (diesel, if originally fitted)
No inappropriate modifications

Test Method: Visual inspection, physical movement check, observation for leaks.

Fuel System:

Checks:

Fuel tank secure
No leaks
Fuel cap seals properly
Fuel lines secure and undamaged
No excessive corrosion to tank

Brake System Components:

Brake Lines and Hoses:

No corrosion or damage
No leaks
Secure mounting
No chafing
Flexible hoses not perished or swollen

Brake Calipers/Drums:

Operating correctly
No leaks
Pads/shoes above minimum thickness
Discs/drums not excessively worn or damaged

Handbrake Cable:

Not frayed or corroded
Moves freely
Secure attachment

Suspension System:

Shock Absorbers:

No leaks
Secure mounting
Operating effectively
Not damaged

Coil Springs:

Not broken
Not collapsed
Secure seating
No serious corrosion

Suspension Arms and Links:

Secure mounting
Bushes not excessively worn
No cracks or damage
Ball joints not excessively worn

Anti-Roll Bars:

Secure mounting
Bushes acceptable condition
Links secure

Steering Components:

Steering Rack/Box:

Secure mounting
No excessive play
No leaks
Gaiters intact

Track Rod Ends:

No excessive play
Secure fixings
Gaiters intact

Drive Shafts:

Not damaged
CV joint boots intact (no splits)
No excessive play
Secure mounting

Body Structure:

Critical Areas Checked:

Sills (bottom of doors)
Jacking points
Suspension mounting areas
Chassis/subframe
Floor pan

Failure Criteria:

Corrosion within 30cm of safety-critical mounting
Sharp edges from rust
Structural integrity compromised
Excessive corrosion affecting strength

Test Method: Visual inspection, physical probing of rust areas, assessment of severity.

Stage 6: Wheel and Tyre Inspection (10 minutes)

Each wheel removed from lift and inspected individually.

Tyres:

Tread Depth Measurement:

Measured across central three-quarters
Minimum 1.6mm throughout
Measured at multiple points
Depth gauge used

Tyre Condition:

No cuts deeper than 25mm or 10% of width
No bulges or lumps
No exposed cords
Not perished excessively
No objects embedded
Correct size and type
Matching on each axle

Test Method: Visual inspection, physical measurement, feel for bulges.

Wheels:

No cracks in rim
Not excessively corroded
Not bent or distorted
All wheel nuts/bolts present
Secure fitting

Wheel Bearings:

Test Method:

Wheel gripped at top and bottom
Pushed and pulled vigorously
Checked for excessive play
Listened for grinding noises

Excessive play = failure

Stage 7: Brake Performance Test (10 minutes)

Vehicle driven onto brake testing rollers.

Equipment: Brake tester consists of rollers that measure braking force at each wheel.

Procedure:

Front Axle Test:
- Front wheels positioned on rollers
- Examiner accelerates rollers
- Brake pedal applied gradually then firmly
- Force measured at each front wheel
Rear Axle Test:
- Rear wheels positioned on rollers
- Same procedure repeated
Handbrake Test:
- Handbrake applied
- Force measured

Pass Criteria:

Service Brake (Foot Brake):

Total efficiency minimum 50% of vehicle weight
Balance between left/right wheels acceptable (within 30% difference per axle)

Handbrake:

Minimum 25% efficiency
Can use service brake or handbrake to achieve this (depends on vehicle design)

Failure Reasons:

Efficiency below minimum
Excessive imbalance between sides
Brake binding (not releasing)
Fluctuating readings (warped disc)

Stage 8: Emissions Test (10 minutes)

For Petrol Vehicles:

Test Procedure:

Engine warmed to operating temperature
Probe inserted into exhaust pipe
Engine revved to specific RPM (typically 2,500-3,000)
Readings taken and averaged

Measurements:

Carbon Monoxide (CO): Must be below limit for vehicle age
Hydrocarbons (HC): Must be below limit
Lambda: Checked if vehicle has catalytic converter (should be 0.97-1.03)

Limits Vary By:

Vehicle age
Engine type
Presence of catalytic converter

For Diesel Vehicles:

Test Procedure:

Engine at operating temperature
Exhaust probe inserted
Engine accelerated sharply to maximum RPM
Smoke opacity measured
Test repeated 3-6 times

Measurement:

Smoke Opacity: Measured on Hartridge scale
Must be below limit for vehicle age

Limits:

Vehicles registered before August 1979: Higher limits
Vehicles with DPF: Much stricter limits

Common Failure Causes:

Faulty lambda sensor
Failing catalytic converter
Engine running issues
Blocked DPF (diesel)
Poor maintenance

Stage 9: Final Checks and Compilation (5 minutes)

Additional Items Checked Throughout:

Bonnet:

Opens and closes
Stay mechanism works
Secure catch

Doors:

All open and close properly
Internal door handles work
External handles work
No sharp edges

Boot/Tailgate:

Opens and closes
Stay mechanism works
Secure catch

Vehicle Condition Plate (if applicable):

Present and readable
Information matches vehicle

Registration Plates (rechecked):

Still secure after test
Compliant format

Compilation:

All test results reviewed
Defects categorized (Dangerous/Major/Minor)
Advisories noted
Pass/fail decision made
Certificate/refusal prepared

After the Test: Results

If You Pass

Documentation Received:

VT20 Certificate:

Test number (unique identifier)
Vehicle details (registration, make, model, colour)
Test date
Expiry date (12 months from test or current expiry)
Odometer reading
Defects (if any minor issues noted)
Advisories (items to monitor)
Test centre details
Examiner information

Digital Record:

Automatically uploaded to DVSA database
Accessible online immediately
Visible on vehicle history checks
Used for taxation verification

Email Notification:

Sent if email address provided
Contains certificate details
Reminder to tax vehicle

What You Can Do Immediately:

Tax Your Vehicle: System automatically checks MOT validity
Drive Legally: Vehicle now compliant for next 12 months
Review Advisories: Plan to address noted items
Keep Records: File certificate for your records (though digital record is official)

If You Fail

Documentation Received:

VT30 Refusal Notice:

All defects listed with categories
Dangerous defects highlighted
Major defects noted
Advisories listed
DVSA manual references for each defect
Test centre details
Retest information

Understanding Defects:

Dangerous Defects:

Pose immediate risk to road safety
Must not drive except directly to garage for repair
Require immediate attention

Major Defects:

Affect safety or environment significantly
Require repair before retest
Can drive directly to garage for repair

Advisories:

Not defects (you still failed on Dangerous/Major items)
Monitor these issues
May become defects if not addressed

Free Retest Period:

Eligibility:

Return within 10 working days (Monday-Friday, excluding bank holidays)
Return to same test centre
Only failed items retested

Partial Retest Items (eligible for free retest):

Lights and bulbs
Horn
Wiper blades
Minor adjustments
Simple repairs

Full Retest Required (not eligible for free retest):

Brake components replaced
Suspension components replaced
Welding carried out
Major repairs undertaken

Example: Failed on headlight bulb and worn brake pads. Replace bulb (partial retest, free within 10 days). Replace brake pads (full retest required, full fee charged).

Repair Options

Option 1: Test Centre Repairs:

Advantages: Convenient, immediate retest, guaranteed compatibility
Disadvantages: May be more expensive, limited choice, potential pressure

Option 2: Independent Garage:

Advantages: Shop for quotes, trusted mechanic, potentially cheaper
Disadvantages: Must return to original test centre for free partial retest

Option 3: DIY Repairs:

Advantages: Save labour costs, learn about your vehicle
Disadvantages: Need knowledge and tools, guarantee quality, takes time

Getting Quotes:

Get 2-3 quotes for major repairs
Provide exact defect descriptions from VT30
Ask for itemized breakdown
Check parts quality (OEM vs pattern)
Verify labour rates
Check garage reviews

Timing:

Remember 10 working day limit for free partial retest
Don't rush major repairs - quality matters
Balance speed with cost-effectiveness

Dangerous Defects Protocol

If Dangerous Defects Found:

Prohibition: You cannot legally drive the vehicle except:

Directly to a garage by prior arrangement for repair
No other route permitted
Must take most direct route

Transportation: Consider:

Trailer recovery
Towing
Professional vehicle transport
Mobile mechanic repair on-site

Insurance: Check your policy:

Some include recovery after MOT failure
Breakdown cover may assist
Specialist MOT failure recovery services available

Common Dangerous Defects:

Severely worn brake pads/discs
Broken coil spring
Seriously corroded brake pipes
Major steering problems
Tyres below legal limit
Leaking brake fluid

MOT Test Variations by Vehicle Type

Motorcycles

Differences from Car Tests:

Side stand operation checked
Steering head bearings tested
Chain guard condition (if chain drive)
Helmet storage security (if fitted)
Shorter test duration (20-40 minutes)

Vans and Larger Vehicles

Additional Checks:

Load area security
Rear doors operation
Body security
Weight-specific brake efficiency requirements

Classic Vehicles

Vehicles 40+ Years Old:

Exempt from testing
Can get voluntary MOT for peace of mind
Same standards applied if tested
Certificate provided if passed

Common Test Centre Practices

Pre-Test Courtesy Checks

Some centres offer:

Visual walk-around with you
Identification of obvious issues
Warning before test begins
Opportunity to fix simple items first

Benefits: Prevents failure on easily fixed items.

While-You-Wait Service

Advantages:

Immediate results
Can discuss issues directly
Faster overall process
No return journey needed

Facilities Vary:

Waiting room quality
Refreshments available
WiFi access
Test viewing (some centres have windows)

Repair and Retest Packages

Many centres offer:

Combined test and repair services
Guaranteed retest pass
Fixed pricing for common failures
Convenience of one-stop service

Considerations:

Compare repair prices
Check quality of parts used
Understand what's guaranteed
Get written quotes before agreeing

Understanding Test Standards

DVSA Manual

MOT examiners follow the DVSA Inspection Manual which provides:

Exact standards for each check
Measurement criteria
Defect categorization guidance
Reasons for refusal codes

Consistency: Manual ensures all examiners apply same standards nationwide.

Updates: Manual updated regularly to reflect:

New vehicle technologies
Regulatory changes
Clarified interpretations
Safety research findings

Examiner Discretion

Limited Discretion:

Clear pass/fail criteria leave little interpretation
Defect categorization mostly defined
Measurements are objective

Judgement Required For:

Severity of corrosion
Whether deterioration is "excessive"
Safety impact assessment in borderline cases

Appeals: If you believe test was unfair:

Discuss with test centre manager
Complain to DVSA if unresolved
Get independent inspection
Retest at different centre

Test Centre Regulations and Oversight

DVSA Monitoring

Quality Assurance:

Unannounced test centre inspections
Examiner assessments
Mystery shopper programs
Digital test result analysis

Standards Required:

Proper equipment calibration
Examiner qualifications current
Facility standards maintained
Accurate record keeping

Enforcement Actions:

Warnings for minor issues
Suspension for serious problems
Removal of authorization for persistent failures
Prosecution for fraud

Your Rights

Entitled To:

Fair testing to DVSA standards
Clear explanation of failures
Copy of test result
Retest within 10 days (for eligible items)
Appeal mechanism

Not Entitled To:

Guaranteed pass
Examiner overlooking defects
Testing beyond what you paid for
Special treatment

Conclusion

The MOT test process is systematic, thorough, and designed to ensure vehicle safety. Understanding what happens during testing:

Reduces Anxiety: Knowing the process removes fear of the unknown Enables Preparation: Understanding checks helps you prepare properly Prevents Failures: Awareness of standards helps you identify issues early Saves Money: Knowledge of what's tested prevents unnecessary work Ensures Safety: Appreciating thoroughness confirms importance

Key Takeaways:

Tests take 30-60 minutes typically
Follow standardized DVSA procedures
Check over 30 different categories
Result in pass with/without advisories or fail
Free partial retest available within 10 working days
Dangerous defects prohibit driving

By understanding each stage of the MOT process, you can approach testing with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect and how the examination protects you and other road users.

Check your vehicle's MOT history before your next test to see what was noted in previous examinations. Our free service provides instant access to all test results, advisories, and defects from the official DVSA database.