How to Check MOT Status on a Vehicle in the UK
If you drive a car in the UK, keeping track of its MOT status is a legal must. Driving without a valid MOT certificate can land you a fine of up to £1,000 and could invalidate your insurance. Whether you’re checking your own car or looking at a used vehicle before buying, it’s fast, free and simple to check a vehicle’s MOT status online. This guide shows you exactly how to check MOT status, what information you’ll get, and why it’s so important to do it regularly.
What Is an MOT?
An MOT is a legally required annual inspection for most vehicles over three years old. The test checks key safety and emissions systems including:
- Brakes
- Tyres
- Lights
- Suspension
- Exhaust and emissions
Without a valid MOT, your car is not legally roadworthy and must not be driven or even parked on a public road unless you’re on your way to a pre-booked MOT test.
How to Check MOT Status Online (Free and Fast)
The easiest and most accurate way to check any vehicle’s MOT status is by using the UK government website.
Step-by-step guide:
- Visit gov.uk/check-mot-status
- Enter the vehicle registration (number plate)
- Click “Continue“
- View the MOT status and expiry date
You’ll also see:
- The current MOT status
- When the MOT expires
- The full MOT history
- Recorded mileages from each test
- Past advisories and reasons for failure
All of this is free and available 24 hours a day.
Why It’s Important to Check MOT Status
1. Avoid Driving Illegally
Driving a vehicle without a valid MOT is against the law. It could result in fines, points on your licence and invalid insurance.
2. Avoid Buying a Problem Vehicle
If you’re buying a used car, the MOT history can reveal whether the car has been well maintained or if it’s had ongoing issues.
3. Spot Mileage Inconsistencies
The online MOT check shows mileage recorded at each test. If the numbers don’t add up, the odometer may have been tampered with.
4. Prepare for Future Repairs
Past advisories can help you plan ahead. If worn tyres or corroded brake pipes were noted last year, you’ll probably need to deal with them soon.
Can You Check MOT Using the VIN Number?
No. In the UK, MOT records are tied to the vehicle registration number, not the VIN. If you don’t have the number plate, you can’t use the government’s MOT check service.
MOT Checks for Used Car Buyers
If you’re looking at a second-hand car, checking the MOT status is one of the first things you should do. It only takes seconds and gives you a quick look into how well the car has been maintained.
Want to go further? Book a full pre-purchase inspection from CAREXAMER. They’ll send a qualified mechanic to inspect the entire vehicle in person and report any problems the MOT won’t show.
What If the MOT Has Expired?
If the MOT has run out, you cannot drive the car unless you’re heading to a booked MOT test. You must:
- Book an MOT test right away
- Do not use the car for any other trips
- Avoid parking it on public roads
Driving without an MOT can lead to a £1,000 fine, and your insurance may no longer cover you.
When Should You Check MOT Status?
- Before buying a used car
- Before renewing your insurance
- If you’re unsure of your MOT expiry date
- After a failed MOT test
- After buying a car you haven’t tested yet
Sign Up for Free MOT Reminders
The government offers free MOT reminders by email or text. You can register online in less than a minute. Visit gov.uk/mot-reminder to get started.
This helps you stay compliant and avoid late penalties.
Final Thoughts
Checking the MOT status of any vehicle in the UK is simple, free and essential. Whether you’re a car owner or a buyer, it helps you stay legal and avoid costly surprises. You’ll find out if a car is safe to drive, what issues it’s had in the past and when it needs its next test.
For complete peace of mind, especially when buying used, combine an MOT check with a full vehicle inspection from CAREXAMER, the UK’s most trusted mobile vehicle inspection service. Their experts inspect over 100 key points so you don’t get stuck with a problem car.