# Free MOT History Check by Registration

> Free MOT history check for any UK vehicle: every MOT test since 2005 with results, mileage, failures and advisories, plus the MOT expiry date.

See every MOT test for a UK vehicle since 2005: results, mileage, failures, advisories and when the MOT expires.

## What the free MOT history check shows

Enter a registration in the search box to see the vehicle's full MOT history from the DVSA record, free:

- Every MOT test since 2005, with the date and whether it passed or failed.
- The mileage recorded at each test.
- Failure reasons and dangerous, major and minor defects.
- Advisories: items the tester says to keep an eye on.
- When the current MOT expires.
- Outstanding safety recalls, where the DVSA data shows one.

Every free check also lists the mileage recorded at each MOT; the full report runs our [mileage anomaly check](https://carcheckup.co.uk/mot-history-mileage-check) on those readings.

## Check if a car has an MOT

The free check shows whether the vehicle's MOT is valid or has expired, and the date it runs out. A car that needs an MOT must have a valid one to be driven or taxed. To check if a car is taxed and MOT'd in one go, the same result shows the [tax status](https://carcheckup.co.uk/dvla-tax-check) too. For first MOT dates and testing early, see the [MOT due date check](https://carcheckup.co.uk/mot-due-date-check).

## How to read MOT history

One advisory is normal. Look for patterns: the same advisory year after year, advisories that later become failures, or a long gap between tests. Corrosion on brake pipes or suspension is more serious than light surface rust. See [MOT advisories explained](https://carcheckup.co.uk/blog/mot-advisories-explained-what-they-mean-for-a-used-car/) and [how to check for safety recalls](https://carcheckup.co.uk/blog/how-to-check-if-a-car-has-an-outstanding-safety-recall/).

## MOT rules in Great Britain

- Most cars need their first MOT when they are three years old, then every year.
- The maximum fee for a car MOT is £54.85.
- You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving without a valid MOT, unless you are driving to a pre-booked test.
- A car with a dangerous defect must not be driven until it is repaired.

Failed an MOT? Read [what to do after failing an MOT](https://carcheckup.co.uk/blog/what-to-do-after-failing-an-mot-test-your-top-questions-answered/).

## MOT history is only part of the story

An MOT shows the car's condition on the day of the test. It does not show whether the car has [outstanding finance](https://carcheckup.co.uk/outstanding-finance-check), has been [written off](https://carcheckup.co.uk/written-off-vehicle-check) or is [recorded as stolen](https://carcheckup.co.uk/stolen-car-check). The [full car history report](https://carcheckup.co.uk/sample-car-history-report) adds those records and 150+ more.

## MOT check FAQs

**Is the MOT history check free?** Yes. MOT history, mileage and DVLA details are free for any UK vehicle.

**How far back does MOT history go?** The DVSA record covers MOT tests in Great Britain from 2005 onwards.

**When is my MOT due?** Enter your registration above: the free check shows the date the current MOT expires. Our [MOT due date check](https://carcheckup.co.uk/mot-due-date-check) explains first MOTs, testing early and reminders.

**Can I check the MOT history of any car?** Yes. You only need the registration; the MOT record is public for every vehicle tested in Great Britain, so you can check a car before you buy it.

**What is checked during an MOT?** Safety and environmental items including lights, brakes, tyres, seat belts, steering, suspension, the body structure and exhaust emissions. It does not check the engine, clutch or gearbox condition.

**Can I drive my car if it fails its MOT?** Only if your previous MOT certificate is still valid and no dangerous defects were found. With a dangerous defect, the car must not be driven until it is repaired.

**How can I prepare my car for an MOT?** Check that all lights work, the tyres have enough tread (at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters) and pressure, the wipers and washers work, the screen is not badly chipped, and no warning lights stay on. Many failures are small items like bulbs.

**I have lost my MOT certificate. What can I do?** You can view and print it free on GOV.UK using the registration and the V5C log book reference, or ask an MOT test centre for a replacement.

**How do I find an MOT test centre?** Only DVSA-approved centres can carry out MOTs; you can find them on GOV.UK. Many offer a free partial retest if the car is repaired and brought back within a set time.

Run the check: enter a UK registration or VIN at https://carcheckup.co.uk/mot-check (free: DVLA details, MOT history and mileage readings; finance, write-off, stolen, keeper records and the mileage anomaly check are in the full report). HTML page: https://carcheckup.co.uk/mot-check