MOT Check | MOT Checker | Check MOT

What Is an MOT Check?

An MOT checker is a legal requirement in the UK that assesses a vehicle’s safety, roadworthiness, and emissions. It applies to most vehicles over 3 years old and must be done annually. Without a valid MOT, you cannot legally drive your vehicle on public roads (except to a pre-booked test).

Why Is a MOT Check Important?

How to Perform an MOT Check Online (Step-by-Step)

STEP 1: 

• Visit the official Website {www.gov.uk/check-mot-history} for the MOT status checker.

STEP 2: 

• Enter your vehicle registration number to check the current MOT Status.

STEP 3:

• Instantly view:

  • MOT expiry date

  • Pass/fail result

  • Advisory notes

  • Full MOT history

No login or payment is required. It’s a 100% free and official service.

Where to Book an MOT Test

• Use local garages or main dealers.
• Look for DVSA-approved test centers.
• You can search online using your postcode.
• Many garages offer MOT & Service combo discounts.

Check MOT Test Result Explained

Pass:

• Your vehicle is roadworthy. MOT is valid for 12 months.

Advisory:

• Non-critical issues that may worsen.

Fail:

• Your vehicle cannot be driven unless you’re going for repairs or a retest.

How to MOT Check History and Advisory Notices

MOT Check by Vehicle Type

Vehicle Type	MOT Required?	Frequency
Cars	✅	Annually after 3 years
Motorcycles	✅	Annually after 3 years
Vans	✅	Annually after 3 years
Electric Cars	✅	Annually after 3 years
Classic Cars (40+ yrs)	❌	Exempt if unmodified

How Often Do You Need an MOT?

• Every 12 months after your vehicle turns 3 years old.
• No difference between electric and hybrid vehicles.
• Classic cars over 40 years old are generally exempt.

Can I Drive Without a Valid MOT?

• No. It’s illegal unless driving to a pre-booked test.
• Penalties up to £1,000.
• Insurance may be void.

Free MOT Check Reminder Tools

• Sign up for GOV.UK’s MOT reminder via SMS or email.
• Use free apps like:
  • MyCarCheck
  • RAC
  • AA App
  • Car Cloud

Buying or Selling a Car? Why MOT Check Matters

• Buyers can check the MOT history for confidence.
• Sellers should have a valid MOT to get better resale value.
• Avoid mileage or safety-related surprises.

Common Reasons Cars Fail the MOT Test

• Tyre tread depth below legal limit
• Headlights misaligned or not working
• Brake pads are worn out
• Suspension faults
• Windscreen visibility issues

What to Do If Your Vehicle Fails the MOT

• Get the issues fixed ASAP.
• Retest is free within 10 working days at the same garage.
• Ask for a quote for repairs.

MOT Cost Breakdown

Vehicle Type	Max Fee Allowed (Gov Cap)
Car	£54.85
Motorcycle	£29.65
Van (up to 3.5T)	£58.60

MOT Exemptions and Special Cases

• Vehicles over 40 years old (no substantial changes) are exempt.
• Electric cars must follow the same MOT schedule.
• Vehicles declared as SORN don’t need an MOT (unless returned to road use).

Mistakes to Avoid During Mot Check

• Assuming there’s a grace period
• Forgetting to check MOT before long trips
• Ignoring advisory notices
• Not checking the garage’s DVSA approval

Future of MOT in the UK

• DVSA plans digital MOT certificates
• Integration with insurance and vehicle tax
• AI-based pre-checks through mobile apps coming soon

Local MOT Test Centres (Example)

City	Approved MOT Centres
London	Kwik Fit, Halfords, MOT Supercentre
Manchester	AutoFix, National Tyres, TestPoint
Birmingham	FastFit, Red Garage, MOT Pros

Performing a quick MOT check can help you avoid fines, stay insured, and most importantly, ensure your vehicle is safe for you and others. Use the GOV.UK tool to check your MOT status and expiry date in seconds.

Question and Its Answers

What is MOT vehicle check?

An MOT check is a UK government test that ensures your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. It’s required annually for most vehicles over 3 years old.

How do I find out when my car MOT is due?

Visit gov.uk/check-mot-status, enter your registration number, and view your MOT expiry instantly.

What does the MOT stand for?

MOT stands for “Ministry of Transport,” the original government body behind the test for vehicle safety and roadworthiness.

How much grace after MOT expires?

There is no grace period; driving without a valid MOT is illegal unless heading to a pre-booked test.

Can I check my MOT online?

Yes, the UK government provides a free MOT check tool online, no login or payment required.

How far can you drive without a MOT?

Only to or from a pre-booked MOT test appointment, all other driving is unlawful.

Can you check where an MOT was done?

Yes, the MOT history section on GOV.UK includes the test centre ID, which indicates where the MOT was carried out.

Check when MOT due?

Use the registration lookup on GOV.UK’s MOT status tool to see the exact due date in seconds.

What do they check on an MOT?

They check safety-critical components like brakes, tyres, lights, seatbelts, wipers, and emissions, not engine or clutch.

How to check MOT history

Go to the GOV.UK MOT history tool, enter your reg number, and view past results and advisories.

Check if a car has MOT?

Yes, enter the reg number on GOV.UK’s MOT checker to confirm if the vehicle has a valid MOT.

What does MOT check?

It checks key safety and environmental features like lights, suspension, brakes, tyres, mirrors, and exhaust emissions.