Learn how to quickly check a car's MOT history online for free - with our UK vehicle check guide.

Need to find out if a vehicle has an MOT? Or if an MOT has run out? Want to discover the mileage of a vehicle at the time of the last test?

If so, getting this information - and much more besides - is easy. You can use the UK government’s Check MOT History page to find MOT information on any UK vehicle, with data going back to 2005.

Simply enter the vehicle number plate and the information you need will be displayed.

 

MOT check: Online via gov.uk

  1. Go to the official GOV.UK website:
     https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-history
  2. Enter the vehicle's registration number (number plate).
  3. Click “Continue”.
  4. You'll then see: MOT test dates; Pass/fail results; Advisories and reasons for failure; Mileage at time of test; When the next MOT is due.

 

Person on laptop

 

Optional: Check MOT + tax status together

Visit: https://www.gov.uk/check-vehicle-tax


 This is useful if you want to see:

  • If the car is currently taxed
  • MOT expiry date
  • Vehicle make, model, CO₂ emissions, and more

 

Do I need an account?

Both MOT and tax status checks are free to conduct and do not require you to sign up for an account.

 

Why might you need to check MOT information?

 

If you're buying a used car

  • Doing an MOT check means you can find any hidden issues. For example, past failures and advisories will show you what’s gone wrong - or what could go wrong soon.
  • Spot “clocking”: You’ll be able to review the mileage history to determine if there has been any odometer tampering.
  • Understand the vehicle’s maintenance history: A well-maintained car will usually have a clean and consistent MOT record.

Armed with the above information, you’ll be better able to decide if you want to buy a particular vehicle.

 

For maintenance planning

  • Track recurring advisory notices: If the same advisory keeps showing up on a vehicle’s maintenance record, it might be time for repairs - or suggest there’s a recurring issue.
  • Prepare for the next MOT: Fix issues early and avoid surprises at the test centre.

 

To check your MOT expiry date

  • Doing a quick check will help you avoid fines or penalties: Note that driving without a valid MOT can result in hefty fines up to £1,000.
  • Set MOT reminders: MOTs are due every year; checking helps you stay on top of this critical task.

 

For insurance and tax

  • Unless you have a current and valid MOT, most insurers will not provide cover. In very limited situations, a currently-live policy may still be valid if the MOT has not yet been passed - e.g. if you’re driving to an MOT centre for a test, or driving to/from a garage for MOT-related repairs. Any other usage almost certainly won’t be covered without a valid MOT.
  • Not that you also can’t tax a car without a valid MOT (unless it’s exempt).

 

For fleet or business vehicles

Carrying out MOT checks is also important for fleet managers, who need to keep records accurate and compliant. Doing so also helps spot patterns in vehicle reliability and/or maintenance costs.