Check MOT Online & By Text: Easy Ways to Check Your MOT Status

Need to check if your MOT is still valid? You can check your MOT status in 10 seconds using the DVSA’s free online tool or by text, phone, or in person. In this guide, we’ll show you all the ways to check your MOT and what information you’ll get back. We’ll also explain what to do if your MOT has expired or is due soon.

How to Check MOT in 30 Seconds:

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How to Check Your MOT | 4 Easy Methods to Check MOT Status

1. Check MOT online

The easiest way to check your MOT online is through the DVSA MOT checker. This free MOT checking tool lets you check your vehicle’s MOT status in seconds. The online MOT check is the most popular method because it gives you instant, detailed results, including test centre details, mileage, and advisories.

To check your MOT history, take note of the 11-digit reference number from your car’s V5C registration certificate.

Go to the DVSA’s MOT tool page and enter your reference and vehicle registration numbers. The site will then display information about your car’s MOT status, test centre details, and the date and mileage of your last MOT test.

RELATED: What Happens if your Car Fails an MOT?

2. Check MOT via text message.

Can’t check MOT online? You can use the text method to check MOT status without internet access. To do a MOT check by text, simply.

All you need to do is send an SMS to 78888 with the message “MOT”, followed by a space and the vehicle registration number.

In response, you will receive a text message from the DVSA with your vehicle’s MOT status and the expiry date. The SMS method to check MOT history is quick, easy, and provides the required information on your car’s MOT status within seconds.

3. Check MOT on the car by phone.

Prefer to check MOT by phone? Call the DVSA MOT checker line on 0300 123 9000. This method to check your MOT status works if you prefer speaking to a real person rather than using the automated tools.

To check the MOT on your car by phone, you will need to provide your vehicle registration number to the agent, and they will give you the MOT test date and MOT expiry date and provide you with more information about your vehicle’s MOT status.

4. Check the car’s MOT in the test centre.

If you need more help, you can check your MOT in person at any MOT testing centre. This method to check MOT status is useful if you want advice or have concerns about upcoming failures

The list of MOT testing centres is available on the DVSA’s website. Equaully important, it will be able to check your MOT test status and give you all the information you need about when your MOT date is due.

What is MOT?

MOT stands for Ministry of Transport. An MOT is an annual test conducted to assess vehicle safety, roadworthiness, and environmental standards.

Important: It is a legal requirement for most vehicles aged three years or older to undergo an MOT test.

During the MOT test, certified technicians examine various vehicle components, including brakes, lights, steering, suspension, tires, emissions, etc. The test aims to ensure that the vehicle meets the minimum safety and environmental impact standards set by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency).

If a vehicle passes the MOT test, it receives a valid MOT certificate, usually good for one year from the test date.

The certificate confirms that the vehicle has met the necessary criteria during testing. Similarly, it assures that both the owner and potential buyers that the car is roadworthy and complies with the legal requirements.

It’s important to note that an MOT certificate does not guarantee the vehicle’s future condition or reliability. However, it only reflects the state of the car at the time of testing. Although, regular maintenance and servicing are still essential to ensure ongoing safety and performance.

RELATED: Sell My Car: DVLA Complete Guide

What Happens if the MOT Expires?

It is important to mention the legalities surrounding driving without an MOT if you are heading to a test centre with a booked appointment. In such cases, as long as you can provide proof of your appointment, you are generally allowed to drive your vehicle to the test centre. 

However, this exception should not be used as an excuse to delay or ignore your MOT obligations. Getting your MOT done before it expires is always advisable to ensure legal compliance and prioritise road safety. Driving without a valid MOT certificate, even with a booking, can still result in penalties and compromise the safety of yourself and others on the road.

Failing to have a valid MOT certificate or driving a vehicle that does not meet the MOT standards can result in:

• Legal penalties
• Invalidation of insurance
• Potential risks to yourself and others on the road

If your car’s MOT get expire, you may face the following penalties: 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all vehicles require an MOT?

Most vehicles aged three years or older are required to have a valid MOT certificate. However, there are some exemptions for certain types of vehicles, such as electric vehicles and historic vehicles.

How often do I need to get an MOT?

In general, vehicles need to undergo an MOT test once a year. The first MOT is required after three years of vehicle registration, and subsequent tests are required annually.

Where can I get an MOT test?

A: MOT tests can only be conducted at authorised MOT testing centres. As a rule, these centres have certified technicians and the necessary equipment to perform the inspection.

What does the MOT test involve?

During the MOT test, various components and systems of the vehicle are examined, including brakes, lights, steering, suspension, tires, emissions, and more. The aim is to ensure the vehicle meets the minimum safety and environmental standards.

What happens if my vehicle fails the MOT test?

If your vehicle fails the MOT test, you will receive a VT30 certificate outlining the reasons for the failure. You must address the identified issues and rebook a new test to obtain a valid MOT certificate.

Can I sell my car without an MOT?

Your potential buyer expects at least 3 months before your MOT expires. Indeed, we recommend obtaining a fresh MOT certificate before selling your car.

Can I buy a car without a valid MOT?

It’s recommended that you request a fresh MOT done before agreeing to purchase a car. This best practice ensures your legal rights as an owner and the car’s roadworthiness.

Can I drive my vehicle without a valid MOT certificate?

Driving a vehicle without a valid MOT certificate, if required, is illegal and can result in penalties, fines, and invalidation of insurance. Please note that having a valid MOT certificate is essential to comply with the law.

How long is the MOT certificate valid?

A valid MOT certificate has a validity period of one year from the test date. It signifies that the vehicle met the necessary standards during testing.

Can I check the MOT status of a vehicle?

Yes, you can check the MOT status of a vehicle online. This allows you to verify the validity of the MOT certificate and review the test results.

Is an MOT certificate a guarantee of a vehicle’s future condition?

No, an MOT certificate reflects the vehicle’s condition at the time of testing. However, it does not guarantee the future reliability or condition of the vehicle. Consequently, regular maintenance and servicing are still necessary to ensure ongoing safety and performance.

Final Thoughts: How to Check MOT?

As a driver, it’s your responsibility to make sure your vehicle undergoes regular MOT testing. Failing to do so could result in a fine or even having your car seized. Checking your MOT status is a straightforward process which you can do online, via text, by phone or by visiting an MOT testing centre.

So, the next time you need to find out when your car’s MOT is due, use one of these methods and stay on the right side of the law.