When Is My MOT Due? How to Check Your MOT Expiry Date

Your MOT certificate has an expiry date - and if you miss it, you're driving illegally. Here's everything you need to know about finding your MOT due date, what happens if it expires, and how to make sure you never forget again.

How to Check Your MOT Expiry Date

There are four ways to find out when your MOT is due:

1. GOV.UK MOT checker - go to gov.uk/check-mot-status and enter your reg. This shows your current MOT status and expiry date directly from the DVSA database.
2. Your MOT certificate - the expiry date is printed on the VT20 pass certificate issued after your last MOT.
3. Your V5C logbook - doesn't show MOT status, but confirms your vehicle details.
4. MotifyMe® - add your vehicle and we'll track your MOT date and send you reminders at 30, 7 and 1 day before it expires. Start free →

When Does a New Car Need Its First MOT?

Brand new cars don't need an MOT until they are 3 years old from the date of first registration. After that, an MOT is required every 12 months.

What Happens If My MOT Expires?

Driving a vehicle with an expired MOT (when one is required) is illegal and carries serious consequences:

Consequence	Detail
Fixed penalty fine	Up to £1,000
Penalty points	Up to 3 points on your licence
Insurance invalidated	Most policies are void without a valid MOT
Vehicle seized	Police can seize and impound your vehicle

Can I Drive to an MOT Appointment With an Expired MOT?

Yes - with one exception. You can legally drive directly to a pre-booked MOT appointment even if your MOT has expired. You cannot use the vehicle for any other purpose during this journey. If stopped by police you should be able to show your booking confirmation.

MOT Grace Period - Does One Exist?

No. There is no grace period for an expired MOT. The day after your MOT expires, you are technically driving illegally. The common belief that you get a month's grace is a myth.

Can I Renew My MOT Early?

Yes - and it's a good idea. You can take your MOT test up to one calendar month before your current certificate expires, and your new certificate will be backdated so you don't lose any time. If you test too early (more than a month before expiry), your renewal date simply becomes one year from the new test date.

Vehicles Exempt from MOT

Some vehicles don't require an MOT:

• Historic vehicles manufactured before 1 January 1977 (MOT-exempt since 2018)
• New vehicles up to 3 years old
• Vehicles kept off public roads (SORN declared)
• Some agricultural and specialist vehicles

How Much Does an MOT Cost?

The DVSA sets a maximum fee that garages can charge. As of 2026 the maximum MOT fee for a standard car is £54.85. Many garages charge less than this - it's worth shopping around or looking for MOT deals online.