Available where ever you see this sign....

Appox 19000 garages authorised to perform as MOT Test Stations

There is a maximum fee for the test (it is not variable upwards) and it must be displayed on a poster in the garage.

The MOT scheme is primarily a road safety measure designed to ensure as far as possible that all cars, motorcycles and light goods vehicles more than 3 years old are properly maintained and at least once a year are examined at an authorised MOT test station to make sure that they comply with certain important requirements of the law.

The test is not the same for all vehicles; some, due to their age and design when produced, may have exemptions from aspects of the test or a greater tolerance level or failure limit (mostly classic or vintage cars). Proof of first registration year and production may be required. If in doubt check with your local test station prior to an examination.

For private motor vehicles a valid test certificate is required on the third anniversary of its first registration. It is now possible to have a vehicle tested up to one month prior to this date and to have the expiry post-dated to the original registration day.

Should your vehicle not have a valid/current MOT it must not be used or parked on the public road. To ensure you are legal when re-presenting the vehicle for an MOT retake (or if you missed the 3rd anniversary of registration) you must book an appointment and record your name and vehicle registration at a local test station, prior to driving the vehicle there.

Should the vehicle fail, you will be issued with a VT3O Certificate stating the items causing failure. Be sure you're clear as to what rectification is required for a pass to be issued.

The MOT covers six main areas as follows: