When is a new car’s MOT first due? Learn about MOT due dates and how to stay on top of when your next one is.
The “MOT” is a test that determines whether a vehicle is roadworthy or not. It covers cars, vans and motorbikes, as well as larger vehicles like lorries and buses.
When is my first MOT due?
A vehicle must undergo an MOT three years after it was first registered, and then every year after that. So the first MOT for new cars is always the same: three years after the initial registration date.
What if my first car was second hand?
If your very first car was purchased second hand, the same rule applies: it must have an MOT once three years have passed since it was first registered. But of course, if the vehicle was registered less than three years before, it won’t yet require an MOT.
First MOT on new car: Get a free reminder
You won’t automatically get a reminder from the DVLA about a first MOT on a new car. However, you can sign up for DVLA’s free reminder service.
You can sign up for the service on this Gov.uk page: https://www.gov.uk/get-stop-view-mot-reminder
Simply enter your registration number and email contact.
A reminder will be sent one month before a car, van or motorcycle MOT is due (and 2 months before a lorry, bus or large trailer MOT is due).
You can also use the above page to stop getting reminders.
Note that you cannot use this service if you live in Northern Ireland. Instead, you’ll get a postal reminder 7 weeks before your MOT is due.
You may get a £1,000 fine if you don’t have an MOT
If you’re caught driving without a valid MOT, you could face a £1,000 fine, so it’s important to stay on top of when it’s due - whether it’s a new car first MOT, or your ongoing annual MOT.
How do I know if my car needs an MOT?
Visit the government’s ‘Check MOT status’ webpage.
Enter your car’s registration number.
It will then show:
- Whether your car already has an MOT
- The expiry date of the current MOT (or when the first one is due)
Why getting your MOT done early makes sense
It’s a good idea to get your MOT done ahead of the due date, so you can fix any issues and stay on the road. You are allowed to get your MOT done up to one month before the due date.
The evolution of the MOT
Back in 1960, when the test was introduced, the MOT first due date was 10 years after registration, and only covered a few basic checks like brakes, lights, and steering.
In 1967, the MOT due date rules changed, to the effect that any vehicle aged three years or more had to undergo a test. This is the same as it is today.
However, the MOT is far more in-depth today than it was in the 1960s.
What checks are done during an MOT?
The modern MOT establishes if the following are in good working order:
Lights & visibility
- Headlights, brake lights, indicators, hazards
- Rear reflectors & number plate lights
- Windscreen condition, wipers, washers, mirrors
Tyres & wheels
- Tyre tread depth (min. 1.6mm for cars)
- Condition (no cuts, bulges, or serious damage)
- Wheels securely fitted
Brakes
- Brake pads, discs, drums, efficiency & balance
- ABS and electronic brake systems (where fitted)
Steering & suspension
- Steering rack, column, power steering
- Shock absorbers, suspension arms, bushes
Structure & body
- Rust, corrosion, sharp edges
- Doors, bonnet, boot close securely
Registration & VIN
- Number plates (legible & correct font/spacing is used)
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) present
Emissions & exhaust
- Exhaust system secure, no leaks
- Emissions test (petrol & diesel limits)
- Diesel particulate filter (DPF) check if fitted
Safety equipment
- Seatbelts, airbags (assuming they are fitted)
- Warning lights (ABS, airbag, TPMS etc.)
- Horn
