When is my MOT due?
Last reviewed 22 October 2026. General information; GOV.UK has the official rules.
Your MOT is due on the expiry date shown on your current MOT certificate. The quickest way to find it is to enter your number plate: our free check shows the date and how many days are left.
When the first MOT is due
In England, Scotland and Wales, a car needs its first MOT by the third anniversary of its registration. In Northern Ireland it’s the fourth anniversary. After that, it needs one every year.
Testing early
You can have the MOT up to a month (minus a day) before the current certificate runs out and keep the same renewal date. For example, if it runs out on 15 May, a test from 16 April onwards keeps 15 May as next year’s date.
If your MOT has run out
- You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving without a valid MOT.
- Your insurance may not pay out if you have an accident.
- You can drive to a pre-booked MOT test, or to have repairs done after a fail, but the car must still be roadworthy.
- If the car failed with a dangerous defect, it shouldn’t be driven until it’s repaired.
Cars that don’t need an MOT
Cars made or first registered more than 40 years ago can be exempt, as long as they haven’t been substantially changed. They must still be kept roadworthy. GOV.UK lists the other exemptions.
Never miss it again
GOV.UK offers free MOT reminders by text or email a month before the due date. Search for “get an MOT reminder” on GOV.UK.
Check a car’s MOT history and mileage
Every MOT test since 2005, mileage flagged for drops and gaps, and advisories in plain English. Free, no sign-up.