Check if your vehicle has a current MoT

How to check your vehicle’s MoT status online, why it matters, and what happens if you drive without one.

Since MoT computerisation in 2007, you no longer need to rely on a paper certificate to check when a vehicle’s MoT expires—the MoT status of any vehicle can be checked online.

To check the MoT and Road Tax status of a car or van, use the government Vehicle Enquiry Service.

To check the MoT status of an HGV, trailer, PSV minibus or any vehicle over 3,500kg GVW, use the MOT History Service.

The MOT History service also lets you view the complete post-2007 MoT history of any vehicle—including passes, failures, advisories and recorded mileage. This is particularly useful when buying a used van or car over three years old.

All vehicles purchased from Maun Motors that require an MoT are supplied with a new certificate, providing peace of mind. 

What is an MoT Test?

The MoT (Ministry of Transport test) is an annual inspection of vehicle safety, roadworthiness and exhaust emissions, required in Great Britain for most vehicles over three years old. It does not cover the condition of the engine, clutch or gearbox.

By law, all road vehicles more than three years old must have a valid MoT to ensure they are safe to drive. The test checks that a vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards.

You must get an MoT by the third anniversary of a vehicle’s registration, or by the anniversary of its last MoT if it is over three years old. Driving without a valid MoT can result in a fine of up to £1,000.

MoT Timing Rules

An MoT lasts for one year. The date it expires is printed on the last pass certificate. You can get an MoT up to a month (minus one day) before it runs out and still keep the same renewal date.

Example: If your MoT expires on 15 May, the earliest you can get the next MoT and keep the same renewal date is 16 April.

If an MoT has expired, you cannot drive the vehicle except to a pre-booked MoT test or to/from a garage for repairs. Driving without an MoT may lead to prosecution.

Different rules apply in Northern Ireland. Check the MoT history of a vehicle.

Information courtesy of Maun Motors