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14 January 2025 When is my MOT due? Status check
An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is legally required for vehicles over three years old in the UK to ensure they are road safe and meet environmental standards. Knowing when your MOT is due is essential to avoid penalties and keep your vehicle on the road. Find out how to check the MOT expiry date below.
When is my MOT due?
In the UK, any car that is three years old or above requires an annual MOT test to prove that it is roadworthy. It is a good idea to take a note of the date of the last MOT check to ensure that you know when the expiry date is (one year from the date of the last inspection). If you are getting your first MOT, you need to get it done by the third anniversary of the vehicle’s registration.
How to check your MOT due date and history
If you’re unsure, you can check your MOT status online for free by entering your vehicle’s registration number on the UK GOV vehicle enquiry service page, which brings up data from the DVLA. It also allows you to check the full MOT history of the vehicle.
This service allows you to download copies of past MOT certificates. You’ll be able to see the mileage recorded at the time of the inspection, as well as whether it passed or failed. Some of the most common reasons for failing an MOT include misaligned or broken lights, illegible number plates, damaged suspension components, or worn brake pads. The good news is that these issues are usually easily fixed with new car parts.
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Why you need to check your MOT due date
The MOT due date is the last day before the MOT certification runs out. If it expires and you don’t renew it on time, you could be fined up to £1000 if caught. Usually, you’ll receive £100 fixed penalty notice but this may vary depending on severity. It’s important to get your car checked on a yearly basis as it promotes early detection of serious faults, which helps prevent serious accidents and thus saves lives.
Can I drive my car on the date the MOT expires?
You legally cannot drive the car or park it on the road from midnight on the expiry date. If the police catch you doing so you will receive a costly fine. The only exceptions to this rule are when you are driving to a preset MOT appointment or to a garage for repairs due to a failed test.
However, it is important to note that if the vehicle was classified as ‘dangerous’ during the test, you cannot drive it under any circumstances. For example, you may fail a test due to dangerous visibility issues, which can include dim lighting and a reduced line of vision. Make sure to check your headlights, rear view mirror, wing mirrors, and wipers to save you from doing a retest.
How much is an MOT?
In the UK, an MOT usually costs between £45 and £55 for a car, and under £30 for a regular motorcycle. The good thing about it is that the responsible government agency has set a price cap, preventing the test centre or garage from overcharging you.
What does an MOT check include?
An MOT inspection covers a whole range of parts that are critical for safety such as the steering and suspension, tyres, car wiper blades, mirrors, brakes, fuel system, and exhaust. They check for damage, faults, leaks, corrosion, and compliance. However, there are certain units that are not included, namely the engine, clutch, and gearbox.
How does an MOT retest work?
If you leave your vehicle at the test centre for repairs, they’ll only have to do a free partial test. This will be carried out within 10 working days. You won’t have to pay to get the car retested if you make sure to bring it back to the centre before the end of the next working day for a partial retest on certain eligible parts. After that, you may be charged for a partial retest or full test (after 10 days).
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