MOT FAQ
Find the answers for the most frequently asked MOT questions below
What is an MOT test?
The UK MOT is a vehicle road safety test.
Its purpose is to ensure that a vehicle is being properly maintained for safe use on public roads.
How often is the MOT test?
For cars & motorcycles the MOT test is annual for vehicles over 3 years old.
For HGV, buses & trailers, the test is also annually, but the first test is performed 12 months after the vehicle is first registered, or in the case of a trailer, is first sold.
What happens if my vehicle fails the MOT?
If your vehicle fails, you will be given a VT3O Certificate stating what items the vehicle failed on.
You can arrange a a retest at your discretion after the failures have been resolved.
If the vehicle only requires a partial retest & you leave it at the test centre for repairs, the retest fee is free.
If you take the vehicle away for repair & return with 10 working days, you will only be charged a partial retest fee.
The maximum a vehicle test centre can charge for a partial retest fee is 50% of the original MOT test fee.
Do the DVLA send out MOT reminders?
No.
The DVLA do not send out reminders for MOT's by default.
For this reason we recommend that you try our free MOT reminder service.
How long does an MOT take?
An MOT usually takes from 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete.
What happens after the MOT?
If your vehicle passes the MOT, then you'll be issued with an MOT certificate that is valid for 12 months.
If you vehicle fails you'll be issued a 'refusal of MOT certificate' & will need to repair the issues before retaking the test.
Can I tax my vehicle without an MOT?
No. You need a valid MOT certificate to tax your vehicle.
Is my vehicle insurance valid without an MOT?
Usually, no.
It's often required that your vehicle has a valid MOT certificate as part of your insurance policy.