Check a vehicle's MOT history

About the MOT and this checker

An MOT test is the UK's annual roadworthiness check for cars, vans and motorcycles over three years old. It covers essentials like brakes, tyres, lights, steering and emissions, and a valid MOT certificate is a legal requirement to drive on public roads once your vehicle reaches that age. Driving without one when required can lead to a fine and can also invalidate your insurance.

This tool queries the DVSA's official MOT history database directly, so the test dates, mileage readings, pass/fail outcomes and advisory notes you see here are the same records an MOT tester or dealer would see. It's commonly used to check the MOT status and expiry date of a vehicle you already own, or to review the test and mileage history of a used car before buying it.

Frequently asked questions

When does my vehicle need its first MOT?

Cars, vans and motorcycles need their first MOT on the third anniversary of registration, and then annually after that.

What happens if the MOT has expired?

You can't legally drive the vehicle on public roads, except to a pre-booked MOT test appointment, until a new certificate is issued. Most insurance also becomes invalid without a current MOT.

What's the difference between a "fail" and an "advisory"?

A fail means the vehicle didn't meet the required standard on the day and needs the fault fixed before it can pass. An advisory flags something the tester noticed that isn't yet serious enough to fail the test, but is worth monitoring or repairing soon.

How current is this data?

Results come directly from the DVSA's MOT history service and are typically updated within a day of the test being carried out. Always treat the physical MOT certificate or the DVSA's own site as the definitive record for anything important, such as a vehicle purchase.