How long is MOT certificate normally valid?

Once your vehicle passes its MOT, the test certificate is valid for 12 months.

How often do you need an MOT certificate?

once a year
Every vehicle that is three-years-old or over must have a current MOT test certificate and you must renew this once a year. If you have a car, it is your responsibility to make sure that it is examined annually. You can find out when your current MOT expires by looking at your test certificate.

Do I need last year’s MOT certificate?

You don’t need your old MOT certificate to have a new MOT test conducted. That being said, it’s wise to keep your previous certificates in a safe place so that if you want to sell your car, you can provide a full MOT history.

Can you back date MOT certificate?

Yes! An MOT can be carried out at any time. If the vehicle is presented for test within the calendar month prior to the date that the MOT is due, the test certificate will run from the date of the test to one year after the expiry date of the current certificate certificate.

How long after your MOT expires Can you drive?

If your car fails its MOT, you can only drive it if the previous year’s MOT is still valid (i.e. the test took place on a date earlier than last year’s). MOTs can be done anytime within the 12 month period before the existing MOT expires.

What is a valid MOT certificate?

The MOT certificate confirms that your vehicle at the time of its test met the minimum acceptable environmental and road safety standards required by law.

Do you need a paper MOT certificate?

Are MOT certificates still issued? Since 20 May 2018, the style and contents of the MOT certificate have changed significantly but a paper copy should be provided by all test garages. An MOT certificate confirms that your vehicle, at the time of its test, passed the minimum legal requirements to be deemed roadworthy.

Can you get copies of old MOT certificates?

You can also ask for a replacement certificate in person from any MOT centre. It does not have to be the centre that did the original MOT. You’ll need to bring the vehicle registration (number plate) and log book (V5C) reference number. The centre can charge you up to £10.

How long can MOT be overdue?

An MOT lasts for a year. The date it runs out is printed on your current MOT pass certificate. You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle without a valid MOT. You can get an MOT up to a month (minus a day) before it runs out and keep the same renewal date.

How long after MOT expiry can I drive?

If your car fails its MOT you can only continue to drive it if the previous year’s MOT is still valid – which might occur if you submitted the car for its test two weeks early. You can still drive it away from the testing centre or garage if no ‘dangerous’ problems were identified during the MOT.

What if my MOT is overdue?

If your MOT has expired, the only circumstances in which you can drive it is directly to the garage for its test or to and from somewhere to be repaired. If you’re stopped on the way by police, you must be able to prove that you have an appointment booked at the garage.