If you own a car, you’ll eventually need the MOT Test in the UK. This complete guide explains what the MOT is, how to check MOT online, book MOT tests, and pass with confidence. The MOT is a mandatory vehicle inspection designed to ensure that cars, vans, and motorcycles are safe, roadworthy, and meet environmental standards. Every year, millions of UK drivers book MOT tests to stay compliant with the law and keep their vehicles safe.
In this complete MOT guide, we’ll explain:
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What the MOT test is and why it’s required
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How to check your car MOT online
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How to book MOT tests at approved centres
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Common reasons cars fail the MOT test
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Tips to pass MOT first time
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Useful DVLA and DVSA MOT check services
Whether you’re preparing for your first MOT or just want to check your car MOT history, this guide will cover everything you need to know.
What is the MOT Test?
The MOT test (Ministry of Transport test) is a mandatory vehicle inspection check carried out in the UK to ensure that vehicles meet road safety and environmental standards.
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Who needs it? Any car over 3 years old must have a valid MOT certificate.
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How often? Once every 12 months.
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Who does it? Approved MOT test centres and MOT garages licensed by the DVSA.
Driving without a valid MOT certificate is illegal and can result in fines, penalty points, and invalid insurance.
Why is the MOT Important?
The MOT isn’t just a legal requirement – it’s about road safety and environmental protection.
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Identifies dangerous defects before they cause accidents
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Helps reduce harmful emissions
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Protects vehicle buyers with verified MOT history checks
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Ensures vehicles meet DVSA standards
If your car fails the MOT, it must be repaired before you can legally drive it again.
How to Check Your Car MOT Status Online
Thanks to the DVLA MOT check service, checking your MOT has never been easier.
Steps to Check MOT Online:
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Go to the official DVLA MOT check website.
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Enter your car registration (reg check UK).
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View your MOT status, expiry date, and past test history.
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You can also check:
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Previous MOT results
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Mileage history
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Advisory notices
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MOT expiry date
How to Book an MOT Test
Booking your MOT test is simple and can be done online or at a MOT test centre near me.
Ways to Book:
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Online MOT booking via your local MOT garage
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Call MOT test centres near you
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Use “MOT booking near me” services online
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It’s recommended to book MOT early, at least 1 month before expiry, to avoid fines.
What Happens During an MOT Test?
The MOT test is a comprehensive vehicle inspection that checks safety, performance, and emissions.
Checklist of MOT Items:
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Brakes & brake fluid
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Tyres & tread depth
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Suspension & steering
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Windscreen & wipers
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Lights & indicators
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Exhaust system & emissions
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Vehicle body & structure
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Fuel system
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Seatbelts
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Horn
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Registration plates
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Common Reasons Cars Fail the MOT Test
Knowing why cars fail can help you pass MOT first time.
Top MOT failures:
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Lights & indicators – blown bulbs, faulty wiring
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Tyres – insufficient tread depth or damage
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Brakes – worn brake pads or discs
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Suspension – broken springs, worn shock absorbers
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Exhaust & emissions – high emissions or leaks
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Windscreen – cracks or damaged wipers
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Tips to Pass Your MOT Test First Time
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Service your car before the MOT
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Check tyres, lights, and brakes
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Keep your car clean – inside and out
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Fix dashboard warning lights
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Book MOT with a trusted approved MOT test centre
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What If My Car Fails Its MOT?
If your car fails, you’ll receive a “refusal of MOT certificate”.
Options:
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Repair the defects immediately at the same MOT garage
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Take your car away for repairs (if still roadworthy)
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Re-test after fixing issues
Driving a car that failed its MOT without repairs is illegal and unsafe.
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MOT Costs in the UK
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Cars: Maximum £54.85
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Motorcycles: Maximum £29.65
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Larger vehicles: Higher fees apply
Some garages offer discounted MOT booking, especially if combined with a car service and MOT check.
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Free MOT Check and Driving Record Services
Did you know you can get a free MOT check online using DVLA tools?
You can also check your driving record online, including penalty points, endorsements, and licence validity.
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MOT History and Vehicle Checks Before Buying a Used Car
Before buying a car, always perform a vehicle MOT check and car background check UK.
This reveals:
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Past MOT results
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Mileage discrepancies
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Ownership history
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Outstanding finance
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Accident damage
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Finding the Best MOT Test Centre Near You
When searching MOT near me, look for:
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DVSA-approved MOT garages
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Customer reviews
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Transparent pricing
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Free MOT reminders
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FAQs About MOT Tests
Q1: When is my MOT due?
Use the DVLA MOT check tool to see your MOT due date.
Q2: Can I drive without an MOT?
No. Driving without a valid MOT is illegal (unless driving to a pre-booked MOT test).
Q3: How long does an MOT take?
Usually 45 minutes to 1 hour, longer if repairs are needed.
Q4: Can I book MOT early?
Yes – up to 1 month before expiry without losing days.
Q5: How do I check my MOT history?
Use the DVLA MOT check website or a trusted MOT checking service.
The MOT test is essential for every UK driver. From checking your MOT status online to booking MOT tests at approved centres, staying on top of your MOT ensures your vehicle remains safe, legal, and roadworthy.
If your MOT is due, don’t delay – book your test today at a trusted MOT centre near me and avoid fines or driving penalties.
