Vehicle inspection in United Kingdom (2026)

Last reviewed: 7 November 2026

In short: A car needs its first MOT by the third anniversary of registration, then one every year, at an approved test centre. Driving without a valid MOT can bring a fine of up to £1,000.

RuleWhat applies
First inspection of a new carVehicle inspectionA car needs its first MOT by the third anniversary of its registration. [1]
Inspection intervalVehicle inspectionAfter the first test, an MOT lasts for one year. A car over 3 years old needs a new MOT by the anniversary of its last one. [1]
Who carries out the testVehicle inspectionThe MOT must be done at an approved MOT test centre, shown by a blue sign with 3 white triangles. [2]
Penalty for an overdue testVehicle inspectionA driver can be fined up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle without a valid MOT, and can be prosecuted. Driving or parking on the road with an expired MOT is not allowed, except to or from a repair or a pre-booked MOT test. [1]
Foreign cars visitingVehicle inspection⚠ Not yet verified

Notes

  • The GOV.UK pages read cover vehicles registered in Great Britain. Whether visiting foreign cars need an MOT was not confirmed.

Sources

  1. GOV.UK (DVSA / DfT): Getting an MOT: When to get an MOT (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
  2. GOV.UK (DVSA / DfT): Getting an MOT: Booking an MOT (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.