Check MOT History

An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is an annual check mandated in the UK for most vehicles over three years old. It’s essentially a health and safety assessment for your car, ensuring it meets basic roadworthiness standards.This website is specifically designed to cover all queries related to MOT check,including how to check MOT history,log in, create an MOT account,understand the MOT test,and view MOT checklist, etc.

Check MOT History

This is crucial for two main reasons:
Road Safety: By checking vital components like brakes, lights, and steering, MOTs help identify potential hazards and keep unsafe vehicles off the roads. This reduces the risk of accidents and keeps everyone safer. Legal Compliance: Driving a car without a valid MOT certificate is illegal and can lead to fines and even invalidate your insurance. An MOT test ensures you’re operating your car within the law.

Feature	Description
What	Mandatory annual check for most UK vehicles over 3 years old.
Why	Ensures road safety (finding hazards) and legal compliance (meeting minimum standards).
Checks	Lights, brakes, steering, tyres, exhaust, body, and interior (seatbelts, warning lights).
Check Status	Free government checker with your car registration: link to MOT checker
Prepare	Check lights, tyre pressure/tread, fluid levels, and listen for unusual noises.
Fail	Tester explains issues (dangerous, major, minor). Repairs needed (especially dangerous). Free retest after repairs (usually within 10 days).
Vs. Service	MOT is mandatory roadworthiness check. Service is recommended preventative maintenance.
Cost	Varies by vehicle type (check government fees).
Early MOT	Yes, up to 30 days before expiry (keeps same renewal date).
Advisories	Non-critical faults identified, recommended to monitor or fix later.
New Cars	Exempt for the first 3 years.
Where	Authorized MOT testing centers (garages, workshops).
Official website	gov.uk

Features of MOT Check

Enhanced Road Safety: The primary benefit of MOT checks is ensuring your car meets minimum safety standards. They inspect vital components like brakes, steering, and lights, identifying potential issues before they cause accidents. This proactive approach keeps you and everyone on the road safer. Legal Compliance: Driving without a valid MOT certificate is illegal and can lead to fines from law enforcement. Regular MOT checks ensure your car is legal to operate, saving you from unnecessary financial penalties and potential hassle. Peace of Mind: A valid MOT certificate provides peace of mind when you’re behind the wheel. You can drive with the confidence that your car has been assessed by a professional and meets the necessary safety criteria. Improved Resale Value: Regular MOT checks not only keep your car safe, but they also contribute to maintaining its resale value. A well-maintained car with a clean MOT history is more attractive to potential buyers and can fetch a better price. Early Warning System: MOT checks can act as an early warning system for potential problems.

What Gets Checked in an MOT

During an MOT, your car will undergo a thorough inspection of several key areas to ensure it meets roadworthiness standards.

Lights and Electrical Equipment: This includes headlights, taillights, brake lights, indicators, fog lights, and number plate lights. The MOT tester will verify their functionality and proper operation. Brakes: A crucial safety check, the MOT assesses the braking system’s efficiency, including the brake pedal feel, balance between wheels, and overall effectiveness in stopping the vehicle. Steering and Suspension: The MOT ensures the steering wheel provides proper control and there’s no excessive play or looseness. The suspension is also checked for wear and tear, ensuring the car handles predictably and maintains good contact with the road. Tyres: The MOT inspects tyre tread depth (minimum legal limit is 1.6mm) for adequate grip, as well as any visible damage or bulges that could pose a safety risk. Exhaust Emissions: A key environmental check, the MOT measures the level of pollutants like carbon monoxide emitted by the car’s exhaust system. Body and Structure: The MOT will look for any obvious signs of damage to the bodywork or chassis that could compromise the vehicle’s structural integrity. Interior Checks: This includes ensuring seatbelts function properly, warning lights operate correctly, and the driver has a clear view forward.

How to Check Your MOT Status and History

Here is how to use the free government MOT checker tool to find out a vehicle’s MOT expiry date, pass/fail history, and any advisories from previous tests:

Visit the official MOT checker tool on MOT Check.
Click on the "Get started" button.

You’ll need the vehicle’s registration number to use the tool. Enter the registration number in the designated field and click “Look up MOT history”.
The website will then display the vehicle’s MOT history, including:

MOT test expiry date
Pass/fail record for previous tests
Any advisories or potential issues identified during previous tests

While some third-party websites also offer MOT history checks,the official government tool is the most reliable source of information as it directly accesses the official DVSA database.

Tips for Drivers Before MOT Test

Here are the tips for drivers to ensure their car is in top shape for an MOT test:

Check your lights: Ensure all headlights, taillights, brake lights, indicator lights, fog lights, and number plate lights are functioning properly, and bulbs are not broken. Inspect your tyres: Make sure your tyres have the correct tread depth (the legal minimum is 1.6mm) and are free of any visible damage or bulges. Top up fluids: Check and top up engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windscreen washer fluid as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Test your brakes: Ensure your brakes feel firm and responsive when you press on the pedal. Listen for strange noises: Pay attention to any unusual sounds coming from the engine or while driving.

MOT Test Cost

Category	Cost	Description
MOT Test Fee	Varies	The core cost of the MOT test itself. This is set by the government and depends on the type of vehicle being tested.
Potential Repairs	Varies	If your car fails the MOT test due to faults, you’ll need to pay for repairs to bring it up to standard. The cost of repairs will vary depending on the severity and number of faults identified.
Retest Fee (if applicable)	Usually Free	If your car fails the initial MOT test, you can get a free retest within a timeframe (typically 10 days) after addressing the initial failures. However, some testing centers may charge a small fee for a retest if it falls outside this timeframe.

Additional Notes

While the MOT test itself has a set fee, the overall cost of an MOT check can vary depending on whether your car passes or fails.
It’s wise to factor in potential repair costs when budgeting for your MOT check.
Regularly maintaining your car can help prevent unexpected failures and keep MOT expenses lower in the long run.

MOT Test Fees by Vehicle Type (UK)

Vehicle Type	Maximum MOT Test Fee (as of June 2024)
Car (up to 8 passengers)	£54.85
Motorcycle (including mopeds)	£29.65
Motorcycle with sidecar	£37.80
Light Private Goods Vehicle (e.g., small vans up to 3.5 tonnes gross weight)	£58.60
Private Goods Vehicle over 3.5 tonnes gross weight	£115.50
Minibus (more than 8 passengers)	£58.60
Taxi or Private Hire Vehicle	£58.60

Notes

These are the maximum fees set by the government. Some MOT testing centers may offer the test for a lower price.

It’s always best to check with the testing center directly for their specific fees.

The table does not include all vehicle categories. You can find the complete list of fees and vehicle categories on the government website: link to MOT fees.

MOT Login

The login process for the MOT testing service depends on whether you’re a new user or an existing user who hasn’t claimed their account yet. Check steps for both scenarios:

Existing User (Account Not Claimed):

Go to the MOT Testing Service website: https://www.mot-testing.service.gov.uk/
Click on Create Account.
Enter a valid and personal email address (twice for confirmation).
Enter your details (name and date of birth).
Enter your contact details (address and phone number).
Create a new 8-digit password.
Review your account details and click on Create Account.

Existing User (Claimed Account):

There are three ways to log in if you’ve already claimed your account:

Email and Password: Enter your registered email address and password. Security Card: If you have a working security card, you can use it to log in as usual. Authentication App: You can set up a two-factor authentication app (like Authy or Microsoft Authenticator) for added security. Once set up, the app will generate a unique code for each login.
Note

New users cannot apply for a security card. Login will be through email or an authentication app.

How to Book an MOT Test

Booking an MOT test in the UK is a straightforward process. Here are a couple of ways you can do it:

Online

Find an MOT testing center: There are many websites that list authorized MOT testing centers in your area. Some popular options include:
- National Online Booking Services: Many national chains of garages and workshops offer online MOT booking.
- Government MOT Testing Center Search: You can search for authorized MOT testing centers on the government website: Visit
Choose your testing center: Once you’ve found a few centers near you, compare their prices, availability, and customer reviews to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Payment: Some centers may require you to pay for the MOT test at the time of booking, while others will allow you to pay on the day.

By Phone

Find a testing center: You can find contact information for authorized MOT testing centers in your phone book or online directories.
Call the center: Contact the testing center directly to inquire about availability and book your appointment.
Confirmation: The center may ask for your vehicle registration number and confirm the date and time of your appointment.

Additional Tips

Book in advance: MOT tests can get booked up, especially around peak times. It’s best to schedule your appointment a few weeks before your current MOT expires.
Early MOT: You can get your car tested up to 30 days before the expiry date of your current MOT certificate, while still preserving the same renewal date for the following year.
Reminders: Set a reminder for yourself so you don’t forget your MOT test appointment.
What to bring: You don’t need to bring anything specific to your MOT test, but it’s a good idea to have your vehicle registration document (V5C) handy in case the tester needs to see it.

MOT Checklist

This checklist will help you ensure your car is ready for its MOT test:

Before the Test:

Check your MOT status and expiry date: Use the free government MOT checker with your vehicle registration number: MOT Check
Lights: Ensure all lights (headlights, taillights, brake lights, indicators, fog lights, number plate lights) are functioning properly and bulbs are not broken or dim.
Tyres:
- Check tyre pressure and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended level.
- Examine tyres for any damage, cuts, or bulges.
- Verify tread depth is at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. (Use the 20p test: insert a 20p coin into the main tread grooves. If the outer rim of the coin is visible, your tread depth is below the legal limit.)
Fluids: Check engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels, and top up if necessary.
Windscreen and wipers: Ensure your windscreen is free of cracks or chips. Check wiper blades for wear and tear and replace if necessary.
Horn: Test your horn to ensure it’s working properly.
Interior checks:
- Make sure seatbelts function correctly and are not frayed or damaged.
- Check all warning lights on the dashboard are functioning normally.

Additional Tips:

Listen for any unusual noises while driving that could indicate potential problems.
Consider getting your car serviced before the MOT test to address potential issues and increase the chance of a first-time pass.

Remember: By preparing your car beforehand, you can avoid unnecessary stress and ensure a smooth MOT test experience.

What Happens if Your Car Fails an MOT?

The MOT tester will explain the reasons for failure and provide a breakdown of the faults identified. They will categorize these faults as either “dangerous,” “major,” or “minor.”

You cannot legally drive your car on public roads with a dangerous fault. Major faults should be addressed as soon as possible.
Minor faults are not a reason for failing the MOT, but it’s recommended to get them repaired eventually.
You have the option to get the repairs done at the test center or a different garage.

The good news is you can get a free retest within a specific timeframe (typically 10 working days) after the initial test, provided the repairs address the reasons for failure. This retest will only focus on the previously identified faults and ensure they have been rectified. Once repairs are complete, take your car back for the retest to obtain a valid MOT certificate.

Difference Between an MOT Test and a Car Service

MOT Test: Mandatory annual roadworthiness check focusing on safety and environmental standards. Car Service: Preventative maintenance for smooth and efficient vehicle performance, addressing potential issues proactively.

MOT Check Rules

MOT checks assess various aspects of your vehicle to ensure it meets road safety and environmental standards.

Mandatory for Most Vehicles:

Applies to most vehicles over 3 years old in the UK.
Must be conducted annually to maintain road legality.

What Gets Checked:

Lights and Electrics: Functionality of headlights, taillights, brake lights, indicators, fog lights, and number plate lights.
Brakes: Efficiency and balance of the braking system.
Steering and Suspension: Control and wear of steering components and suspension system.
Tyres: Tread depth (minimum 1.6mm), overall condition for damage or bulges.
Exhaust Emissions: Levels of pollutants like hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides.
Body and Structure: Corrosion, damage, and overall integrity of the bodywork and chassis.
Interior Checks: Functionality of seatbelts, warning lights on the dashboard.

Failing the MOT:

Tester explains reasons for failure, categorizing faults as dangerous, major, or minor.
Repairs are required, especially for dangerous faults, to pass a retest.
Free retest is possible within a timeframe (usually 10 days) after repairs are completed.

Additional Rules:

Driving without a valid MOT is illegal and can lead to fines.
MOT test fees vary by vehicle type (check government website for current fees).
Early MOTs are allowed up to 30 days before expiry (keeps the same renewal date).
MOT advisories highlight non-critical faults that should be monitored or repaired in the future.

Conclusion

Don’t underestimate the importance of an MOT check. It ensures safety, legal compliance, and peace of mind. Schedule your MOT checks regularly and enjoy the benefits they bring.

MOT Check Helpline

Category	Details
Phone	0300 123 9000
Open	Monday to Friday from 7:30am to 6:00pm

FAQ’s

What is an MOT test?

An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a mandatory annual check in the UK for most vehicles over three years old. It ensures your car meets basic roadworthiness standards.

Why is an MOT important?

MOTs promote road safety by identifying potential hazards and ensure legal compliance by verifying your car meets minimum requirements.

What gets checked in an MOT?

MOTs inspect lights, brakes, steering, tyres, emissions, bodywork, and interior elements like seatbelts and warning lights.

How can I check my MOT status and history?

Use the free government MOT checker with your vehicle registration number.

How can I prepare my car for an MOT?

Check lights for proper function.
Ensure correct tyre pressure and tread depth (minimum 1.6mm).
Top up fluids according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Listen for unusual noises.

What happens if my car fails an MOT?

The tester will explain the faults (dangerous, major, minor). Repairs are needed, especially for dangerous faults. You can get a free retest within a timeframe (usually 10 days) after repairs.

What’s the difference between an MOT and a car service?

MOT: Mandatory annual roadworthiness check.

Car Service: Recommended preventative maintenance to keep your car running smoothly.

How much does an MOT cost?

MOT test fees are set by the government and vary by vehicle type.

Can I get an MOT early?

Yes! You can get tested up to 30 days before the expiry date while keeping the same renewal date for the following year.

What are MOT advisories?

Advisories are non-critical faults identified during an MOT that don’t cause a fail but should be monitored or repaired in the future.

Do I need an MOT for a new car?

New cars are exempt from MOT tests for the first three years.

Where can I get an MOT test done?

Authorized MOT testing centers (VOSA-approved) like garages and workshops.

What happens if I drive without a valid MOT?

Driving without a valid MOT is illegal and can lead to fines.

Can I get an MOT retest if I fail the first time?

Yes, you can get a free retest within a timeframe after addressing the initial failure points.

How long does an MOT test take?

An MOT test typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour.

What are some additional checks I can perform on my car before an MOT?

Check your windscreen washer fluid level and operation.
Ensure your horn is working properly.
Test your wipers for functionality and wear.
Look for any warning lights on the dashboard.

Is there a way to find MOT test centers near me?

Many MOT testing centers advertise online. You can also search for “MOT testing near me” on search engines.

What happens if I lose my MOT certificate?

You can request a replacement MOT certificate from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) for a fee.

Can I sell my car without a valid MOT?

It’s not illegal to sell a car without a valid MOT, but the new owner won’t be able to drive it on the road until they obtain a new MOT certificate.