When Is My MOT Due?

The three-year rule

Your first MOT is due when your car is three years old. After that, you need one every 12 months without fail. Your registration plate tells you the year — the first two digits are the age identifier. A car registered in September 2023 (23 plate) will be due its first MOT in September 2026.

You can book your retest up to one month early, but do not assume this moves your renewal date — the test is still due every 12 months from the original pass date, not from the early test.

How to check your MOT due date

You can check online using the DVLA MOT checker at gov.uk — you need your registration and VIN (vehicle identification number). Alternatively, call us on 0121 476 2287 and we will tell you over the phone. If you have your service book handy, the MOT pass date is always recorded there.

What happens if you miss it?

Driving without a valid MOT is illegal. You can be fined up to £1,000 and your insurance may not cover you if you have an accident. If your MOT is coming up, book in early so you are not caught out. We offer same-day testing without a booking — call us or visit 640 Bristol Road South in Bartley Green, Birmingham.

Failing your MOT? We can help

If your car fails, we provide a clear report and can quote repairs for every failure and advisory. You get a free retest within 10 working days once repairs are done — no extra charge. Most failures are straightforward to fix. Call us on 0121 476 2287 with your registration and we will advise on what is likely needed.