The rules in Great Britain
- A vehicle needs its first MOT by the third anniversary of its registration. Some, such as some taxis and larger passenger vehicles, need one at one year old.GOV.UK
- After that, it's due by the anniversary of its last MOT. An MOT lasts a year.GOV.UK
- You can get it tested up to a month (minus a day) early and keep the same renewal date. If it runs out on 15 May, the earliest is 16 April.GOV.UK
- Test earlier than that and the new MOT runs for a year (minus a day) from the date it passes, so your renewal date moves.GOV.UK
- If the last MOT was in Northern Ireland and the next is in Great Britain, the renewal date is based on the date of the GB test.GOV.UK
- Driving without a valid MOT can mean a fine of up to £1,000. The only exceptions are driving to a pre-booked MOT or to somewhere for repairs.GOV.UK
Common questions
When is a car's first MOT due?
In Great Britain, by the third anniversary of its registration. Some vehicles, such as some taxis and larger passenger vehicles, need one at one year old.
How early can I get an MOT?
Up to a month (minus a day) before it runs out, and you keep the same renewal date. If it runs out on 15 May, the earliest is 16 April.
Can I drive with an expired MOT?
Only to a pre-booked MOT or to a garage for repairs. Otherwise you can be fined up to £1,000.
How do I get a reminder?
Add the date to your calendar from the result above, or sign up for the free text or email reminder on GOV.UK.
Is it different in Northern Ireland?
Yes. Cars and motorcycles are tested from four years old at DVA test centres. Our Northern Ireland guide
More free checks and guides
Mileage check
Every MOT reading on a chart, and a warning if it ever went down.
How much is an MOT?
The official maximum fees in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
MOT results explained
Dangerous, major, minor and advisory, and what each means for you.
What the MOT checks
The nine areas of the test, from brakes to emissions.
MOT test centres
Every approved test centre in Great Britain, by postcode and town.
MOTs in Northern Ireland
Test centres, booking, changing a test and fees.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Getting an MOT, when to get an MOT
- GOV.UK: Getting an MOT, penalties for not having an MOT
- GOV.UK: Get an MOT reminder
- nidirect: How the MOT scheme works
Checked 14 October 2026. Spotted something out of date? Email hello@motmileage.co.uk.