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Check MOT History Free: What Your Car's Record Reveals

Every MOT test since 2005 is recorded on the DVSA database and available for free. This data is invaluable for understanding your car's condition, spotting patterns, and making smart buying decisions.

How to Check MOT History

Go to the GOV.UK MOT history checker

Visit gov.uk/check-mot-history. This is the official, free service run by the DVSA. No registration required.

Enter the vehicle registration number

Type in the number plate (e.g., AB12 CDE). The tool works for cars, motorcycles, vans, and other vehicles that require an MOT.

Review the full history

You will see every MOT test from 2005 onwards, including pass/fail result, recorded mileage, advisory notices, and failure reasons. The most recent test appears first.

What the MOT History Shows

Field	What it tells you
Test date	When each MOT was carried out. Should be roughly annual.
Result (Pass/Fail)	Whether the car passed or failed each test.
Mileage	The odometer reading at the time of each test. This is the most reliable mileage record available.
Advisory notices	Items that were noted but not serious enough to fail. These often become failures at the next test.
Failure reasons	Specific items that caused a failure, with DVSA defect codes.
Test number	Unique reference for each test. Can be used to verify a result.
Expiry date	When the current MOT certificate expires.

Red Flags to Watch For

Repeated failures in the same category

If the car fails on suspension every year, there may be an underlying structural or design issue. One-off failures are normal; patterns suggest chronic problems that will keep costing money.

Large mileage jumps between tests

Inconsistent mileage readings can indicate odometer tampering (clocking). If the car shows 40,000 miles one year and 60,000 the next, then drops back to 45,000 the following year, the mileage has been wound back. This is illegal but still common.

Gaps in testing history

A car that has not been tested for a year or more was either off the road (SORN), abroad, or driven illegally without an MOT. Ask the seller to explain any gaps.

Escalating advisory notices

Advisory items that appear year after year without being fixed will eventually become failures. If the last three MOTs all mention 'brake hose showing signs of deterioration', that component is overdue for replacement.

Multiple dangerous defects

A history of dangerous defects suggests the car has been poorly maintained. One dangerous defect in 10 years is unlucky; multiple suggests neglect.

Using MOT History When Buying a Used Car

The MOT history is one of the most valuable free tools available when buying a used car. Here is how to use it effectively:

Check before you visit: Look up the registration number before travelling to see the car. If the history shows problems, you can save yourself a wasted trip.
Compare mileage to the listing: If the seller claims 50,000 miles but the last MOT showed 65,000, the odometer has been tampered with. Walk away.
Look at advisory patterns: Advisories from the last 2-3 tests tell you what will likely need replacing soon. Factor these into your purchase price negotiation.
Calculate likely repair costs: Use our failure cost guide to estimate what the advisory items will cost when they eventually fail.
Check the mileage trajectory: Mileage should increase steadily each year. The average UK car covers 7,000-8,000 miles per year. Significantly more or less is not a problem but is worth noting.

MOT History and Insurance

Insurers do not typically check your MOT history directly when setting premiums. However, the MOT status of your vehicle matters:

- Driving without a valid MOT can invalidate your insurance policy entirely
- If you have an accident while your MOT has expired, your insurer may refuse to pay out
- Some insurers check MOT status at the point of claim
- Having a valid MOT is a legal requirement for driving on public roads (except to a pre-booked test)

Set Up Free MOT Reminders

The GOV.UK MOT reminder service sends you a free text or email when your MOT is due. You can sign up at gov.uk/mot-reminder. You will receive a reminder roughly one month before your MOT expires, giving you time to book using the early booking window.

Third-party apps like the RAC and AA also offer MOT reminders as part of their free services.