Outstanding finance
The car may still be owned by a finance company. Buying it can lead to a dispute over who owns it, and the lender may try to recover the car or the money owed.
Rated 4.9 / 5 on Trustpilot • 780,000+ vehicle checks run
How to Check if a Car Is Insured (MID Check)
We check everything about your car's current condition and history. Our report is best in the UK
- Free car check: MOT history & mileage anomaly check
- 150+ data points from DVLA, DVSA & Experian
- Instant report, no subscription
Verified Data Sources • Official UK Government & Police Records
- DVLA Vehicle & Road Tax Records
- DVSA MOT History & Test Advisories
-
Finance & High-Risk Register
- Police PNC Stolen Markers & Theft Database
Expert Guide
Official UK Vehicle Advice
Ensure Your Vehicle is Properly Registered on askMID
Making sure your vehicle is correctly listed on the Motor Insurance Database (MID) is super important. This helps you stay compliant with UK laws and avoid any fines. With the askMID service, you can quickly check your vehicle’s insurance status on the MID.
Why is it Important to be Listed on the MID?
The MID is a crucial tool for law enforcement and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to verify the insurance status of vehicles. It helps in identifying uninsured vehicles using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology. If your vehicle isn't listed, you might get stopped by the police. Plus, being listed can help recover your vehicle faster if it's ever stolen.
How to Check if Your Vehicle is Listed on the MID
Checking if your vehicle is listed on the MID is really simple:
- Visit askMID.com
- Enter your vehicle registration number
- Click the check button to see your vehicle's insurance status
Doing this quick check can save you from potential stops and fines by the police, ensuring peace of mind while driving.
How to Avoid Issues with Your MID Listing
To avoid problems, make sure you renew your insurance well before it expires and double-check all details for accuracy. This proactive approach can prevent misunderstandings and potential stops by law enforcement.
Additionally, notify your insurer immediately of any changes to your vehicle details, such as a change in registration number or new modifications, to ensure the MID is updated promptly.
What to Do if Your Insurance Status is Incorrect on the MID
If your vehicle is incorrectly listed on the MID, contact your insurance provider immediately to rectify the issue. Ensure they update the records as quickly as possible to avoid any legal complications. Keep a record of your communication with the insurer, and follow up if necessary to confirm the update has been made.
If the problem persists, you can also reach out to the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB) for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions about askMID
What is the MID?
The Motor Insurance Database (MID) is a system that keeps track of all insured vehicles in the UK, aligning insurance records with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
Why should I check the MID?
Checking the MID helps ensure your vehicle is properly insured and listed, preventing potential issues with law enforcement and avoiding fines.
How often should I check the MID?
It's recommended to check the MID at least once a year, or whenever you renew your insurance policy, to ensure your vehicle's details are up-to-date.
What if my vehicle is incorrectly listed on the MID?
If you find discrepancies in your vehicle's listing on the MID, contact your insurance provider immediately to rectify the issue and ensure your records are updated.
What happens if my car is not insured?
If your car is not insured, you could face legal penalties including fines, points on your license, and even the possibility of your vehicle being impounded. It is illegal to drive without insurance in the UK.
How do I check if my car is insured?
You can check your car’s insurance status by entering your vehicle's registration number on the MIB Car Insurance Check website.
What details are needed to check car insurance?
Typically, you need the vehicle's registration number to check its insurance status online through the MIB service.
Can I drive a car without insurance?
No, it is illegal to drive a car without insurance in the UK. You must have at least third-party insurance coverage to legally drive a vehicle.
What should I do if my insurance details are not found?
If the MIB checker does not find your insurance details, contact your insurance provider to ensure that your policy is active and correctly registered. Sometimes discrepancies can occur, and it’s important to resolve them promptly.
Does car insurance affect my vehicle's resale value?
While car insurance itself does not affect resale value, a car with a history of being insured and without claims can be more attractive to buyers. It indicates that the vehicle has been legally maintained and covered in case of incidents.
Can I get a free car insurance check?
Yes, the MIB offers a free car insurance check through their online service. This is a quick and convenient way to verify your vehicle's insurance status. Visit askMID.com to check your insurance.
Are there different types of car insurance?
Yes, there are several types of car insurance including third-party, third-party fire and theft, and comprehensive coverage. Each type offers different levels of protection and coverage.
How do I update my car insurance details?
You should contact your insurance provider to update any details related to your car insurance. This includes changes in address, vehicle modifications, or changes in usage.
What is the minimum car insurance required by law?
The minimum car insurance required by law in the UK is third-party insurance. This covers damage to other vehicles and injury to other people, but not your own vehicle or injuries.
How can I reduce my car insurance premiums?
To reduce your car insurance premiums, consider increasing your voluntary excess, maintaining a clean driving record, installing security devices, and shopping around for the best deal. Bundling your car insurance with other types of insurance can also result in discounts.
What happens if I drive without insurance and get into an accident?
If you drive without insurance and get into an accident, you will be personally liable for any damages or injuries caused. Additionally, you may face legal penalties including fines, points on your license, and possible disqualification from driving.
Can I insure a car that is not registered in my name?
Yes, you can insure a car that is not registered in your name, but you must inform the insurance company of the actual owner and primary driver. This may affect the insurance premium and coverage.
What should I do if my car insurance is canceled?
If your car insurance is canceled, you should immediately contact your insurance provider to understand the reason and rectify any issues. You must arrange for new coverage as soon as possible to avoid driving without insurance.
780,000+
Vehicle checks run on CarCheckUp
£11.99
Full report inc. VAT
150+
Data points across 24+ vehicle checks
4.9 / 5
Rating on Trustpilot
Don't Get Caught Out
1 in 6 reports
1 in 6 reports
1 in 3 reports
Free in every check
3 in 100 reports
1 in 30 reports
Rare, but serious
Rare, but serious
1 in 3 vehicles checked by our customers had a recorded risk
Based on 4,553 full reports run between March 2023 and September 2026, 1 in 3 vehicles had outstanding finance, an insurance write-off, a stolen marker or a high-risk record. (Note: These figures describe vehicles our customers chose to check, not a sample of all UK vehicles.) Here’s what to look out for.
Read the full UK Used Car Risk Report: by age, make and model
Insurance write-off
An insurer has declared the car a total loss. Category S and N cars can be repaired and sold again, but the record lowers the value and can affect insurance.
Number plate changes
Usually just a private plate, but a change can separate a car from its history. Check that the plate history matches the V5C log book.
Mileage anomalies
Our mileage anomaly check compares every recorded reading, free on MOT readings and with dealer and insurer records in the full report. A reading lower than an earlier one can mean an error, a replaced dashboard or a clocked car.
Imported vehicles
Imported cars can have history from outside the UK that UK records don’t show. Ask for the import paperwork and service history.
Colour changes
A respray can be harmless, or it can hide accident repairs or a disguised identity. Compare the colour on the V5C with the car in front of you.
Police stolen marker
Recorded on 17 of the 4,553 reports we looked at. A stolen car can be taken back by the police or the rightful owner, leaving you without the car or your money.
High risk register
A finance company, insurer or the police has registered an interest in the car. Contact them before you buy to find out if that interest is still active.
Source: CarCheckUp full reports, March 2023 to September 2026 (4,553 reports). Figures describe vehicles our customers chose to check, not every car in the UK.
Check a vehicle now
Free check vs full report
What Our Car History Check Covers
The free car check covers the DVLA record and MOT history. The full car history check adds the records that decide whether a used car is safe to buy: every check below appears in the same report as our sample.
CarCheckUp full report
£11.99
Other leading full history checks
£14.99 – £19.99
You save
up to £8.00
Single full report with finance, write-off, stolen and mileage checks, including VAT. Other providers’ published prices, checked September 2026.
| Check | Free check | 150+ data points Full report (24+ checks) |
|---|---|---|
| Risk checks | ||
| Outstanding finance | Not included | Included |
| Insurance write-off & damage (Cat S, N, C, D) | Not included | Included |
| Police stolen marker | Not included | Included |
| High risk register | Not included | Included |
| Scrapped & certificate of destruction | Not included | Included |
| Salvage auction records | Not included | Included |
| Vehicle Identity Check (VIC) | Not included | Included |
| History | ||
| MOT history with advisories & failures | Included | Included |
| Mileage history & anomaly check | MOT readings | Included |
| Mileage recorded by dealers & insurers | Not included | Included |
| Previous keepers | Not included | Included |
| Number plate changes | Not included | Included |
| Colour changes & DVLA colour codes | Not included | Included |
| Log book (V5C) issue dates | Latest date | Included |
| Imported, exported & pre-registration use | Export marker | Included |
| Previous searches on the vehicle | Not included | Included |
| Vehicle data | ||
| Make, model, colour, fuel & engine size | Included | Included |
| Tax status, MOT status & expiry dates | Included | Included |
| CO2 emissions & tax band | Included | Included |
| Registration & status details | Not included | Included |
| Manufacturer (SMMT) model details | Not included | Included |
| Engine, performance & technical specification | Not included | Included |
| Weights, dimensions & towing | Revenue weight | Included |
| Fuel economy & noise | Not included | Included |
| Road tax cost (6 and 12 months) | Not included | Included |
| EV battery, charging & range (electric vehicles) | Not included | Included |
| Motorcycle (MCIA) details (motorcycles) | Not included | Included |
| Price | Free | £11.99 per report from £8.39 with bundles |
Simple & Transparent
Buy 1 Report for £11.99
Car History Check Prices: Pay Once, No Subscription
Every package gives you the same full car history check. Bundles cost less per report, so they suit you if you're checking several cars. The free car check stays free.
1 Full Report
£11.99 inc. VAT
Single vehicle
- 1 full report
- Outstanding finance
- Insurance write-off & damage (Cat S, N, C, D)
- Police stolen marker
- High risk register
- Mileage history & anomaly check
- MOT history with advisories & failures
- Previous keepers
- Number plate changes
Show all 24 checks includedShow less
- More risk checks
- Scrapped & certificate of destruction
- Salvage auction records
- Vehicle Identity Check (VIC)
- More history
- Mileage recorded by dealers & insurers
- Colour changes & DVLA colour codes
- Log book (V5C) issue dates
- Imported, exported & pre-registration use
- Previous searches on the vehicle
- Vehicle data
- Registration & status details
- Manufacturer (SMMT) model details
- Engine, performance & technical specification
- Weights, dimensions & towing
- Fuel economy, emissions & noise
- Road tax band & 6/12-month cost
- EV battery, charging & range (electric vehicles)
- Motorcycle (MCIA) details (motorcycles)
Most Popular • Save 10%
Buy 3 Reports for £32.36
3 Full Reports
£32.36 inc. VAT
£10.79 per report
- 3 full reports, for any 3 vehicles
- Outstanding finance
- Insurance write-off & damage (Cat S, N, C, D)
- Police stolen marker
- High risk register
- Mileage history & anomaly check
- MOT history with advisories & failures
- Previous keepers
- Number plate changes
Show all 24 checks includedShow less
- More risk checks
- Scrapped & certificate of destruction
- Salvage auction records
- Vehicle Identity Check (VIC)
- More history
- Mileage recorded by dealers & insurers
- Colour changes & DVLA colour codes
- Log book (V5C) issue dates
- Imported, exported & pre-registration use
- Previous searches on the vehicle
- Vehicle data
- Registration & status details
- Manufacturer (SMMT) model details
- Engine, performance & technical specification
- Weights, dimensions & towing
- Fuel economy, emissions & noise
- Road tax band & 6/12-month cost
- EV battery, charging & range (electric vehicles)
- Motorcycle (MCIA) details (motorcycles)
Best Value • Save 20%
Buy 5 Reports for £47.95
5 Full Reports
£47.95 inc. VAT
£9.59 per report
- 5 full reports, for any 5 vehicles
- Outstanding finance
- Insurance write-off & damage (Cat S, N, C, D)
- Police stolen marker
- High risk register
- Mileage history & anomaly check
- MOT history with advisories & failures
- Previous keepers
- Number plate changes
Show all 24 checks includedShow less
- More risk checks
- Scrapped & certificate of destruction
- Salvage auction records
- Vehicle Identity Check (VIC)
- More history
- Mileage recorded by dealers & insurers
- Colour changes & DVLA colour codes
- Log book (V5C) issue dates
- Imported, exported & pre-registration use
- Previous searches on the vehicle
- Vehicle data
- Registration & status details
- Manufacturer (SMMT) model details
- Engine, performance & technical specification
- Weights, dimensions & towing
- Fuel economy, emissions & noise
- Road tax band & 6/12-month cost
- EV battery, charging & range (electric vehicles)
- Motorcycle (MCIA) details (motorcycles)
All prices include VAT. Unused reports have no expiry date. See all prices and larger bundles · See a sample report
Trusted By Thousands
What UK Drivers Say About CarCheckUp
Over 780,000+ vehicle checks completed. Read genuine feedback from buyers who avoided costly mistakes.
"Saved me £6,200 on an Audi A3! The seller claimed the car was clear, but the CarCheckUp report immediately showed £5,400 in outstanding Black Horse finance. Lifesaver."
"Identified that a Nissan Qashqai had been rolled back by 42,000 miles between its 2022 and 2023 MOTs. Walked away immediately."
"Instant download and looks much cleaner than standard vehicle check reports. Showed the complete keeper history, MOT advisories and road tax status. 10/10 recommend."
Why CarCheckUp?
Why Run Your Car Check with CarCheckUp
One reg check gives you the free vehicle check, and one payment the full car history check: 150+ data points across 24+ checks, with no subscription.
Official UK Government Data
Direct real-time queries with DVLA, DVSA, Experian Automotive, and the Police National Computer (PNC) theft database.
150+ Points across 24+ Checks
Comprehensive vehicle verification covering finance, write-offs (Cat S/N), mileage rollback, keeper history, plate changes and salvage history.
Free Instant Baseline Check
Instant access to complete MOT test history, mileage anomaly analysis, test failure advisories and road tax status at zero cost.
Pay Once • No Subscriptions
Transparent pricing with no hidden recurring monthly fees or surprise renewals. Full reports cost £11.99 with multi-check discounts from £9.59.
Reg Plate or 17-Digit VIN
Check any UK car, van or motorbike using its registration plate number or the 17-digit chassis VIN from the log book or windscreen.
Instant On-Screen & PDF Report
Clean, mobile-friendly report generated in seconds, with downloadable PDF proof and immediate copy emailed to your inbox.
Objective Comparison
Compare UK Car History Check Providers
How our car check compares with other UK vehicle history check services on data coverage, sources and price.
| Feature & Coverage | CarCheckUp | HPI Check® | AutoCheck (Experian) | Total Car Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outstanding Finance Check | Included | Included | Included | Included (£9.99+) |
| Insurance Write-Off (Cat S, N, C, D) | Included | Included | Included | Included |
| Police Stolen Status (PNC) | Included | Included | Included | Included |
| Mileage Anomaly Check | Free & Full | Included | Included | Included |
| MOT History & Test Advisories | Free & Full | Included | Included | Included |
| Previous Keepers & Plate Changes | Included | Included | Included | Included |
| Free VIN Lookup | Free | Not offered | Not offered | Not offered |
| Previous Searches on the Vehicle | Included | Not offered | Not offered | Not offered |
| Free Mileage Anomaly Check | Free | Not offered | Not offered | Not offered |
| Verified Data Sources | DVLA, DVSA, Experian, PNC | DVLA, DVSA, HPI, Police | DVLA, DVSA, Experian, Police | DVLA, DVSA, Police |
| No Recurring Subscription | Yes (Pay once) | Yes (Pay once) | Yes (Pay once) | Yes (Pay once) |
| Single Full Report Price | £11.99 | £19.99 – £29.99 | £14.99+ | £9.99 – £14.99 |
Expert Guidance
UK Car History & Buying Guides
Guides to checking a used car: what a car history check shows, how to read an MOT history and what to ask the seller.
Sample Report
View sample report
Full Vehicle History Report: What's Included
Preview a complete 150+ point vehicle check. See exact report format for outstanding finance, insurance write-off, stolen status, and MOT history.
Finance Check
Read guide
How to Check Outstanding Finance on a Used Car
Buying a vehicle with unpaid hire purchase or PCP can lead to repossession. Learn how lenders record financial interests on the register.
Write-Off Check
Read guide
Category S & Cat N Insurance Write-Offs Explained
The essential difference between structural (Cat S) and non-structural (Cat N) insurance write-offs, safety implications, and resale values.
Mileage Check
Read guide
How to Spot a Clocked Car & Check Mileage Anomaly
How mileage rollback fraud works in the UK and how comparing annual MOT test records with insurer logs reveals clocked odometers.
DVLA Check
Read guide
Official DVLA Vehicle Details & Road Tax Verification
Check official DVLA road tax status, VED rate, MOT expiry date, vehicle registration date, engine size, and fuel type instantly.
Registration Check
Read guide
UK Number Plate & Vehicle Registration History
Learn how number plate checks work in the UK, how previous plate changes are tracked, and how to verify legitimate registration history.
Keepers History
Read guide
Previous Keepers & V5C Logbook History Check
Verify how many registered keepers a vehicle has had, the date of the last V5C logbook issue, and why frequent owner turnover is a red flag.
Buying Guides
Explore all articles
Used Car Buying Advice & Scam Prevention Guides
Explore expert car buying tips, common used car scams in the UK, inspection checklists, and maintenance insights from our motoring experts.
MOT & mileage stats
MOT & Mileage Statistics by Make and Model
MOT pass rates, common MOT failures and typical mileage for the cars UK buyers check most. Choose a make, or go straight to a model.
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Ford
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Volkswagen
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Vauxhall
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BMW
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Audi
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Mercedes-Benz
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Toyota
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Peugeot
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Nissan
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Renault
-
Citroen
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Honda
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Land Rover
Popular Land Rover models: Range Rover SportRange Rover EvoqueRange Rover
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SEAT
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Skoda
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Volvo
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Hyundai
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Kia
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Fiat
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MINI
Popular MINI models: CooperCooper SCountryman
Got Questions?
Car & Vehicle Check FAQs
Common questions about a free car check, a vehicle check by reg and a full car history check in the UK.
Is the car check free?
Yes. The free car check shows the DVLA record (make, colour, tax and MOT status) and the full MOT history with our mileage anomaly check, for any UK registration. Outstanding finance, write-off and stolen records come from licensed databases, so they are in the full car history check. A single full report costs £11.99 including VAT.
What is the difference between a reg check and a car history check?
A reg check (or number plate check) looks up a vehicle's details from its registration: make, model, colour, tax and MOT. A car history check goes further and searches the records a seller may not mention: outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, stolen markers, plate changes and mileage records.
What does a CarCheckUp full car history report include?
Outstanding finance, insurance write-off records, police stolen markers, high-risk markers, scrapped and certificate of destruction status, salvage auction records, mileage records and anomalies, full MOT history with advisories and failures, previous keepers, number plate and colour changes, V5C log book dates, import and export status, previous searches, and manufacturer specification, performance and emissions data.
Can I check a car by its VIN (chassis number)?
Yes. Choose "VIN / Chassis No." above the search box and enter the 17-character VIN shown on the V5C log book and at the base of the windscreen. We find the vehicle's current registration through the DVSA MOT database and run the check as normal. A vehicle that has never been in the MOT database may need a registration search instead.
Is the free car check really free?
Yes. The free check shows the MOT history with advisories and failures, mileage history with a mileage anomaly check, tax and MOT status and key DVLA vehicle details at no cost. You only pay if you want the full history report.
What is a mileage anomaly check?
It compares every recorded mileage reading for the vehicle in date order. If a reading is lower than an earlier one, we flag it as an anomaly: it can be a typing error at a test, a replaced dashboard or a clocked car. The free check runs it on MOT readings; the full report adds mileage recorded by dealers and insurers. If an anomaly is flagged, ask the seller for service records that show the mileage.
How much does a full car history check cost?
A single full report costs £11.99 including VAT, and multi-check bundles are cheaper per check. There are no subscriptions or hidden fees.
Where does the vehicle data come from?
From official UK sources: the DVLA, the DVSA MOT database, and Experian, which supplies finance, write-off and high-risk records and police stolen markers from the Police National Computer.
How quickly will I get my report?
Instantly. The full report opens on screen as soon as your payment is confirmed, and a copy is sent to your email.
Is CarCheckUp an alternative to an HPI check?
Yes. CarCheckUp covers the key checks buyers look for in an HPI check, including outstanding finance, write-off, stolen and mileage records, using official UK data with no subscription.
What should I do if a car has outstanding finance?
Do not buy it until the finance is settled. The finance company owns the car until the agreement is paid off and can repossess it, even from a new owner. Ask the seller to clear the agreement and get written confirmation from the lender before you pay.