Some of the most frequently asked questions about getting an MOT.
How early can i get an MOT? | Can you MOT your car early? | How long before MOT is due can it be done? | How soon before MOT due can it be done?
It is possible to get an MOT up to a month (minus a day) before the previous runs out and keep the same renewal date. You can still get an MOT before this, but the renewal date for the following year will change to one year (minus a day) from the date the vehicle last passed its MOT.
Can you drive your car without MOT? | How long can you drive without MOT?
Driving on public roads without a current MOT certificate is against the law and if you are stopped by the police, you may be fined, receive points or have your vehicle removed. The exception is if you have a pre-booked MOT and you are driving to that appointment.
How do you find out when your MOT is due? | When is my MOT due date?
It is up to the driver to remember and book the MOT, as unlike tax, no reminder is sent and this is where problems can occur. Unless you make a diary note a year in advance, it is easy to let the date pass.
If you are unsure when your MOT is due, it’s time to go and check your paperwork now. Your last MOT certificate will include a renewal date. If it has passed, you should book an MOT as soon as possible and not drive your car again until it has passed. If your vehicle doesn’t pass, you shouldn’t drive it until the necessary work has been carried out.
Can you go over your MOT date?
As mentioned above, driving on public roads without a current MOT certificate is certainly against the law and if you are stopped by the police, you will possibly be fined, receive points or have your vehicle removed.
Can you drive your car if your MOT is booked?
Driving on public roads without a current MOT certificate is illegal. The exception is if you have a pre-booked MOT and you are driving to that appointment. This is the only exception.
When do you need to MOT a brand new car? | When is MOT due new car?
Every car owner in the UK has to take their vehicle to a VOSA approved garage for an annual MOT. The exception lies with new cars that do not need an MOT for the first three years.
Can police tell if no MOT? | Do ANPR cameras check MOT?
Across the UK road network there are extensive CCTV networks, along with speed cameras and mobile police vehicles that are tracking car movements around the country. The majority of these are equipped with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras. With so many ANPR cameras around, it doesn’t take long for a car without a valid MOT to be picked up. Unless you are on route to a pre-booked MOT, you can face a fine of up to £1000.
