MOT Requirements & General Information
What’s an MOT?
Most vehicles that are older than three years must by law go through yearly roadworthiness checks. The MOT test makes sure that a vehicle meets the government’s road safety and environmental standards.
Check Online
To check a vehicle’s MOT status or history online you will need the vehicle registration mark. You also need the MOT test number from one of the following documents:
- VT20 test certificate
- VT30 refusal certificate
You can check the current MOT status of any vehicle online. This might be one that you own already or a second hand vehicle that you are thinking of buying.
The online MOT status check gives you information about:
- the date of the last test
- mileage on the vehicle at the time of the test
- the expiry date of the test
You can compare the online information against the paper certificate to make sure it’s genuine.
To find out details of previous MOT tests on a vehicle you can do an online MOT history check.
You can only look up information online going back to 2005 when the MOT Scheme was computerised.
The MOT history check will give you the following information:
- full test details
- mileage at the time of each test
What the MOT test includes
You can check the current MOT status of any vehicle online. This might be one that you own already or a second hand vehicle that you are thinking of buying.
The online MOT status check gives you information about:
- the date of the last test
- mileage on the vehicle at the time of the test
- the expiry date of the test
You can compare the online information against the paper certificate to make sure it’s genuine.
To find out details of previous MOT tests on a vehicle you can do an online MOT history check.
You can only look up information online going back to 2005 when the MOT Scheme was computerised.
The MOT history check will give you the following information:
- full test details
- mileage at the time of each test
The MOT looks at some important items on your car to see that they meet key legal requirements at the time of test.
The Body and Vehicle Structure
Is free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas and there are no sharp edges likely to cause injury.
The Fuel System
Has no leaks and the fuel cap fastens and seals securely.
The fuel cap will need to be opened so be sure the key is available.
The Exhaust Emissions
The vehicle meets the requirements for exhaust emissions, dependant on the age and fuel type of the vehicle.
Is secure, complete, without serious leaks and silences effectively.
The Seat Belts
All belts installed are checked for type, condition, operation and security. All compulsory seat belts must be in place.
The Seats
The front seats are secure. Front and rear backseats can be secured in the upright position.
The Doors
Latch securely in closed position. Front doors should open from inside and outside the vehicle. Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items.
The Mirrors
The minimum numbers are on the vehicle, their condition and security.
Load Security
Boot or tailgate can be secured in the closed position.
The Brakes
Their condition, operation and performance (efficiency test). Note the removal of the road wheels is not part of the test.
The Tyres and Wheels
Their condition, security, size, type and tread depth. Spare tyres are not inspected.
The Registration Plates
Their condition, security, characters correctly formed and spaced.
The Lights
Their condition, operation and security. Headlamps for aim.
The Bonnet
Securely latches in the closed position.
The Wipers and Washers
Operate to give the driver a clear view ahead.
The Windscreen
Its condition and the driver’s view of the road.
The Horn
Operates correctly and is of a suitable type.
The Steering and Suspension
Are of a satisfactory condition and operation.
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Is on vehicles first used on or after 1 August 1980. Not more than one different VIN is displayed except on multistage build vehicle.
