Free MOT History Check

Yes, completely free. MOT history data is provided by the DVLA and is publicly available at no cost. We use official government data to show you the full MOT history of any vehicle registered in the UK.

An MOT check reveals: all previous MOT test dates and results (pass/fail), recorded mileage at each test, all failure reasons, advisory notices (items that may fail soon), and the current MOT expiry date. This data goes back to 2005 for most vehicles.

Yes, you only need the vehicle registration number (number plate) to check MOT history. You do not need the V5C document, VIN number, or any other paperwork.

Look for mileage that decreases between MOT tests, or unusually low annual mileage (under 3,000 miles suggests potential clocking). The average UK car covers 7,000-10,000 miles per year. Any significant deviation should raise questions.

Review all advisories and failures carefully. Repeated failures on the same component (brakes, suspension) suggest ongoing issues. Use our guides to understand what repairs might cost, and factor this into your offer price or decision to buy.

No. MOT history only shows test results and mileage. A full vehicle check (HPI check) also reveals outstanding finance, stolen status, write-off history, and plate changes. We recommend doing both checks before buying any used car.

Your MOT due date is 12 months from your last MOT test (shown on your certificate). New cars are exempt for the first 3 years from registration. You can check your exact MOT expiry date using the registration number on gov.uk or with our tool.

The maximum DVSA fee for a car MOT is £54.85, though most garages charge £30-£50. Motorcycles have a maximum fee of £29.65. Many garages offer discounts when combined with a service. The MOT test fee does not include any repairs needed.

No, driving without a valid MOT is illegal except when driving directly to a pre-booked MOT test. Fines can reach £1,000, and your car insurance may be invalidated. The only exception is cars less than 3 years old, which are MOT exempt.

An advisory is a warning that a component is worn but not yet serious enough to fail the test. Common advisories include tyre wear, brake pad wear, and minor corrosion. These items will likely need attention before the next MOT and are useful for budgeting repairs.

A standard MOT test takes 45-60 minutes. If repairs are needed and the garage can do them immediately, it may take longer. You can wait at most garages or drop the car off and collect it later.

Yes, you can book your MOT up to one month (minus a day) before it expires and keep the same renewal date. For example, if your MOT expires on 15 October, testing from 16 September preserves your anniversary date.