How To Check the MOT History of a Vehicle Registered in the UK
When you have a vehicle, as a responsible vehicle owner your car must be safe, roadworthy and not dangerous to the environment. The Ministry of Transport of the United Kingdom requires vehicles to have MOT Test annually if it’s over 3 years old.
Getting an MOT Test is quite easy, you can also check the status of your own car, one you are renting or buying. What’s amazing is you can check it online wherever you are, so in case authorities want to know if your vehicle status or if you want to check it especially if you go beyond UK borders.
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Table of Contents
MOT Test Overview
MOT test checks that your vehicle (car, motorcycle, etc) meets road safety and environmental standards. Note that if your vehicle is new, you need to have it tested after 3 years and afterward, annually.
An MOT is good for a year. You can get it a month before its renewal date minus one day. For example, if your car’s MOT expires on February 15, the earliest renewal is January 14.
Getting an MOT Test
Go to an approved MOT Test centre. Check if they have the logo shown above as centers with the logo can do the MOT Test.
MOT Test Costs
As per the website of the UK Government, here are the maximum fees you pay when you get your vehicle checked. There is no need to pay Value Added Tax (VAT).
MOT Test Results
Your vehicle may either pass or fail. If you pass, you get an MOT Certificate as well as you can retrieve it online. If you fail, there is a possibility you can’t drive the vehicle unless you get it fixed. After repairs, you need to retest your vehicle.
Checking your MOT Test Results Online
1. Go to this website and click “Start Now.”
2. Enter the registration number or the plate number of the vehicle you want to check.
3. Confirm if the make and the color of the vehicle are correct.
4. You will see that the vehicle has been taxed and the MOT has been checked. The status will also be shown.
Frequently Asked Questions regarding MOT Checks
1. Are there vehicles exempted from the MOT Test?
Yes, those (1) powered with electricity and registered before March 1, 2015, (2) tractors, and (3) classic vehicles are exempt from MOT Tests.
2. Is there a fine if you don’t have a valid MOT?
Yes, you can pay up to GBP 1,000 if you are driving without a valid MOT.
3. Can I get reminded of my MOT Test?
Yes, you can be e-mailed or texted a month before your MOT is due if you sign-up in this link.
4. There are problems with my test results, can I appeal or complain?
Yes, if you have failed and do not agree with such an assessment, you need to file a complaint form and send it to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) within 14 days so that DVSA will discuss it with you.
5. My MOT Certificate is wrong, what do I do?
If your mileage is wrong and you 28 days have not yet passed, go to the MOT test centre for a replacement certificate. However, if it has already passed, report it to the DVSA.
If the vehicle make or model, color, registered country or MOT test centre is wrong, then contact the DVSA.
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