MOT & Service Information

    MOT Testing Guide

    Everything you need to know about UK MOT requirements, testing, and keeping your vehicle roadworthy in 2025

    Legal Requirement
    Road Safety
    Annual Test

    When is MOT Due?

    First test at 3 years old, then annually

    You can test up to 1 month early

    Test Duration

    Typically 45-60 minutes

    Allow extra time for minor adjustments

    Maximum Cost

    £54.85 for cars (Class 4)

    Some centres charge less

    Check MOT History & Due Date

    Free service from the UK Government to check any vehicle's MOT status

    Check on GOV.UK

    What is an MOT Test?

    The MOT test is an annual inspection of vehicle safety, roadworthiness, and exhaust emissions required by law for most vehicles over 3 years old in the UK. The test must be conducted at a DVSA-approved test centre.

    MOT stands for Ministry of Transport, the government department that introduced the test in 1960. The test ensures vehicles meet minimum safety and environmental standards.

    What MOT Covers

    • • Vehicle safety systems
    • • Roadworthiness components
    • • Exhaust emissions levels
    • • Environmental impact
    • • Lighting and signalling
    • • Structural integrity

    What MOT Doesn't Cover

    • • General mechanical condition
    • • Engine performance
    • • Clutch operation
    • • Gearbox function
    • • Brake pad wear (unless dangerous)
    • • General service items

    MOT Test Results

    Pass

    Vehicle meets minimum safety standards. Valid for 12 months from test date (or expiry date if tested early).

    Pass with Minor Defects (Advisory)

    Passed but items monitored that may need attention soon. Not a failure but should be addressed.

    Fail - Dangerous or Major Defects

    Vehicle has dangerous or major defects and cannot be driven until repaired. Must be retested after repairs.

    MOT Certificate Validity

    • You can take your vehicle for its MOT test up to 1 month (minus a day) before it expires

    • If you test early, the expiry date will be 12 months after the original expiry date, not the test date

    • Example: MOT expires 15 March 2026, test on 20 February 2026, new expiry date is 15 March 2027

    • MOT certificates are now digital - you won't receive a paper certificate

    Find an MOT Test Centre

    Locate DVSA-approved test centres in your area

    What to Look For

    • DVSA approved test centre (check for blue sign)
    • Competitive pricing (many charge less than maximum £54.85)
    • Good customer reviews and reputation
    • Convenient location with easy access
    • Online booking available for convenience
    • Offers same-day or while-you-wait service
    • Can carry out repairs if vehicle fails

    Booking Your Test

    • Book in advance to secure your preferred time slot
    • Have your vehicle registration number ready
    • Ensure vehicle has valid insurance
    • Check your current MOT expiry date
    • Prepare payment method (cash/card)
    • Allow extra time in case minor adjustments are needed
    • Ask about free retest policy if repairs are needed

    Tip: You can search for approved MOT test centres near you using the official GOV.UK service. Many garages, dealerships, and specialized test centres are authorized to conduct MOT tests.