Mot

Most vehicles require an MOT test and a new certificate every 12 months once they reach three years old. To check when your car is due for its next MOT.

You can have your vehicle’s MOT test conducted up to one month (minus one day) before its current certificate expires. You can check your MOT due date using the link above or by referring to your previous MOT certificate.

An MOT test typically lasts about an hour, though additional time may be required if repairs are necessary. Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled MOT and feel free to leave your car with us until it's convenient for you to collect it.

The MOT test assesses various aspects of your vehicle to ensure it meets safety and environmental standards. For a complete list of checks, please refer to our full MOT checklist.

Many MOT failures result from minor, preventable issues. Before your test, check the following:

• Windscreen – Ensure there are no significant cracks or chips and that all wipers are functioning properly.
• Lights – Verify that all exterior lights are working correctly.
• Tyres – Check the tyre pressure and ensure the tread depth meets the legal requirements.

Carrying out these simple checks beforehand could help you avoid a retest, saving you both time and money.

No documents are required if your vehicle has previously had an MOT and has not undergone a registration plate change. However, if this is your car’s first MOT or it has had a registration plate change, you must bring the V5C logbook (vehicle registration certificate).

If your vehicle fails its MOT, it is considered ‘unroadworthy’ and must be repaired before it can be retested. Driving without a valid MOT certificate is illegal and could result in a fine of up to £1,000.

• If repairs are completed at the same test centre on the same day (or the next day at another test centre), the MOT retest is free.
• If your car leaves our test centre but returns the next working day, no retest fee will be charged.
• If your car returns within 10 working days, a partial retest fee will apply.
• Beyond 10 working days, a full MOT test fee will be required.

Yes, you can appeal an MOT failure by obtaining a VT17 form from the test centre. If your appeal is successful, you may receive a partial or full refund of your MOT test fee. However, do not proceed with any repairs before the appeal process is completed, as this could impact your claim.

All MOT results are officially recorded:

• If your vehicle passes, you will receive a VT20 pass certificate, which remains valid for one year.
• If your vehicle fails, a VT30 failure document will be issued.