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Free MOT History Check – Check MOT Status, Mileage, Advisories & Failures

Use our free MOT history check to instantly check a vehicle's MOT status, expiry date, mileage history and past MOT test results.

Simply enter a vehicle registration number into the MOT check tool above to view the full MOT history of any car, van or motorcycle registered in the UK.

Our MOT check uses official DVSA records to show:
  • Current MOT status
  • MOT expiry date
  • Complete MOT test history
  • Mileage recorded at each MOT test
  • MOT advisories and minor defects
  • Reasons for MOT failures

Checking MOT history helps you understand how a vehicle has been maintained and whether there may be potential mechanical issues or repair costs in the future.

What is an MOT test?

An MOT test (Ministry of Transport test) is a mandatory annual vehicle inspection required for most vehicles over three years old in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) and four years old in Northern Ireland.

The test ensures that vehicles meet the minimum safety and environmental standards required to be legally driven on UK roads.

MOT tests are carried out at authorised MOT testing centres approved by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

If a vehicle passes the MOT test, it receives a certificate confirming that it met the required safety standards at the time of inspection. If it fails, repairs must be carried out before the vehicle can be legally driven on public roads.

Why check a vehicle's MOT history?

Running an MOT history check provides valuable insight into the condition and maintenance history of a vehicle.

Reviewing past MOT tests can help identify recurring issues, previous failures and advisory notes that may indicate underlying mechanical problems.

Checking MOT history can help you:
  • Confirm whether the vehicle currently has a valid MOT
  • See when the next MOT test is due
  • Review the vehicle's mileage history
  • Identify recurring faults or advisory warnings
  • Estimate potential repair or maintenance costs
  • Spot possible mileage discrepancies

For used car buyers, checking MOT history is an essential step before purchasing a vehicle.

What does our MOT history check show?

Our free MOT check report provides a summary of important information recorded during each MOT test.

Your MOT report will include:

MOT status
Confirm whether the vehicle currently has a valid MOT certificate and when the next MOT test is due.

MOT expiry date
See the exact date the vehicle's current MOT certificate expires.

Full MOT history
View all previous MOT tests including pass and fail results.

Mileage history
Each MOT test records the vehicle's mileage. Reviewing these records helps track vehicle usage over time and identify possible mileage inconsistencies.

Advisory notes
Advisories highlight potential issues that may need attention soon but were not serious enough to cause the vehicle to fail the MOT test.

MOT failure reasons
If a vehicle has previously failed an MOT test, the report will show the specific reasons for failure.

How to check MOT history online

Checking a vehicle's MOT history online is quick and simple.

Follow these steps:
  1. Enter the vehicle registration number in the MOT history check tool above.
  2. Click Check MOT history.
  3. Instantly view the vehicle's MOT status, expiry date, mileage history and advisory notes.

This allows you to quickly review important information about a vehicle before buying it or maintaining your own car.

What does an MOT test check?

During an MOT test, several important components of the vehicle are inspected to ensure they meet safety and environmental standards.

Key areas checked during an MOT test include:

Vehicle identification
The vehicle registration plate, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and other identification markings are checked for accuracy and visibility.

Lights and indicators
Headlights, brake lights, indicators, hazard lights and rear lights are inspected to ensure they function correctly.

Steering and suspension
Steering components and suspension systems are examined for damage, wear and proper operation.

Brakes
Brake pads, discs, drums and hydraulic systems are tested to ensure effective braking performance.

Tyres and wheels
Tyres must meet the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm and be free from serious damage.

Seat belts
Seat belts are inspected for secure attachment, correct operation and signs of damage.

Bodywork and structure
The vehicle's body and structural components are checked for corrosion or damage that could compromise safety.

Exhaust emissions
Vehicles must meet environmental emissions standards, including checks for excessive exhaust smoke or emissions.

Mirrors and visibility
Mirrors, windscreen wipers and washers are inspected to ensure the driver has clear visibility.

Interior safety checks
Warning lights, the horn and the driver's field of vision are also assessed during the MOT inspection.

Common reasons vehicles fail their MOT

Since May 2018, MOT test results classify defects as Minor, Major or Dangerous.

Major and dangerous defects will result in an MOT failure.

Some of the most common reasons vehicles fail their MOT include:
  • Faulty or broken lights
  • Worn or damaged tyres
  • Brake system problems
  • Suspension wear or damage
  • Excessive exhaust emissions
  • Windscreen damage affecting driver visibility

According to DVSA statistics, around one third of vehicles fail their MOT test the first time, with lighting faults, tyre wear and brake problems being the most common causes.

Regular vehicle maintenance and addressing advisories early can help prevent MOT failures.

MOT advisories explained

During an MOT test, a tester may record advisory notices. These highlight issues that are not serious enough to fail the vehicle but may require attention in the near future.

Common MOT advisories include:
  • Tyres approaching the legal tread limit
  • Brake pads showing signs of wear
  • Minor suspension wear
  • Early signs of corrosion

Checking advisory notes in a vehicle's MOT history helps drivers plan future maintenance and avoid more costly repairs.

MOT statistics in the UK

Millions of MOT tests are carried out in the UK each year.

Recent DVSA statistics show:
  • Over 30 million MOT tests are conducted annually
  • Approximately 30–35% of vehicles fail their MOT test on the first attempt
  • The most common MOT failure category is lights and signalling

These statistics highlight the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and checking MOT history before buying a used vehicle.

Check MOT history instantly

You can check MOT history instantly using the vehicle registration number.

Enter the registration into the MOT check tool above to view:
  • MOT status
  • MOT expiry date
  • Mileage records
  • Advisory notes
  • Previous MOT failures

For additional reassurance when buying a used vehicle, you may also wish to run a full vehicle history check, which can reveal information such as outstanding finance, insurance write-offs and theft records.

Frequently Asked Questions about MOT history checks

How can I check MOT history for free?

You can run a free MOT history check by entering a vehicle registration number into the MOT check tool above. This will show MOT status, expiry date, mileage history and advisories recorded during previous MOT tests.

Can I check MOT history using the registration number?

Yes. In the UK you only need the vehicle registration number to check MOT history.

Is MOT history public?

Yes. MOT history records are publicly available through the DVSA database.

Does MOT history show mileage?

Yes. Each MOT test records the vehicle's mileage at the time of the test, which helps track usage and detect possible mileage discrepancies.

How often does a vehicle need an MOT?

Most vehicles require an MOT test every 12 months once the vehicle is three years old.

The cost of MOT tests

MOT test costs can vary depending on the garage or testing centre you choose. However, there are regulations in place governing the maximum fees garages can charge. The maximum fee for a car MOT test is currently £54.85.

Penalties for MOT non-compliance

Driving without a valid MOT certificate is illegal and can result in fines of up to £1,000, along with penalty points on the driver's licence of the vehicle's registered keeper.

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What do we check?

50+ checks are performed including:

  • Stolen check (Police & insurance)
  • Written off vehicle check
  • Outstanding Finance check
  • MOT history records
  • All plate changes
View a sample report
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