MOTScout

When Is My MOT Due? How to Check and Calculate

When Is My MOT Due?

Your MOT expires 12 months after the date it was issued. If you renew early (up to a month before expiry), the new certificate runs from the old expiry date — so you never lose time.

How to Check Your MOT Expiry Date

1. Check the certificate

Your MOT certificate (VT20) shows the expiry date clearly at the top. Keep this in your car or store a photo on your phone.

2. Use the DVSA online service

The government provides a free MOT expiry checker. Simply enter your vehicle's registration number to see:

  • Whether your MOT is valid
  • When it expires
  • Your vehicle's MOT history

3. Check via the MOT reminder service

You can sign up for free MOT reminders from the DVSA. They'll send an email or text when your MOT is coming up.

4. Check the windscreen sticker

Older vehicles may have a coloured disc in the corner of the windscreen, but this is no longer issued for new tests. Don't rely on this.

When Should I Book My MOT?

Book your MOT 4–6 weeks before the expiry date. This gives you:

  • Enough time to get a convenient appointment
  • Time for repairs if it fails
  • Time for a retest before the expiry

The Early Testing Rule

You can get your MOT done up to one calendar month before the expiry date without losing any days. The new certificate's expiry date is calculated from the old one, not from when you tested.

Example: Your MOT expires on 30 June. You test on 1 June. The new MOT certificate will expire on 30 June next year — you don't lose 29 days.

What Happens If My MOT Expires?

If your MOT has expired:

  • Do not drive the vehicle — it's illegal (fine up to £1,000)
  • Your insurance may be invalidated
  • You can only drive it to a pre-booked MOT test, driving directly there
  • You must book and complete the test as soon as possible

New Vehicles

New cars don't need an MOT until they are 3 years old. After that, they need a test every year. Your first MOT is due on the third anniversary of the vehicle's first registration date.

MOT and Road Tax

You need a valid MOT to tax your vehicle. If your MOT expires, you won't be able to renew your road tax online.

Keeping Track

The simplest way to remember your MOT date:

  • Save the date in your phone calendar with a reminder 6 weeks before
  • Register for DVSA email/SMS reminders
  • Note it alongside other annual car costs (insurance, breakdown cover)