How Long Does an MOT Last in the UK

The short answer is 12 months. An MOT certificate in the UK is valid for exactly one year from the date it was issued. But there are a few details worth knowing, especially if you want to make sure you never accidentally drive without one.

12 Months from the Date of the Test

When your car passes its MOT, the certificate is valid for 12 months starting from the date the test was carried out. This is an important distinction. The clock starts from when the test actually happens, not from when your old certificate was due to expire. If your old MOT ran out on 1 March but you did not get tested until 15 March, your new certificate runs from 15 March to 15 March the following year. You have effectively lost two weeks.

The exception to this is the early renewal window. If you get your MOT done within one calendar month of the expiry date, your new certificate will run from the old expiry date, not from the date of the test. This is the smartest way to renew because you do not lose a single day.

When Does Your Car Need Its First MOT?

Brand new cars do not need an MOT until they are three years old. The test is due on the third anniversary of the car's registration date. After that first test, it is every 12 months. If you bought a new car in June 2023, for example, its first MOT would be due by June 2026.

How to Check Your MOT Expiry Date

You can check when your MOT expires for free on the GOV.UK website. All you need is your vehicle registration number. The service will show you the expiry date, the mileage at the last test, and whether there were any advisories. It takes about 30 seconds and is well worth doing if you are not sure when your next test is due.

What to Do as Your MOT Approaches

• Book early. You can test up to a month before expiry without losing time. This gives you a buffer if repairs are needed.
• Check your car beforehand. Simple things like bulbs, tyres, and windscreen wipers are common failure points. A quick check at home can save you a retest fee.
• Shop around. MOT prices vary. The maximum fee is 54.85 pounds but many garages charge less.
• Set a reminder. It sounds obvious, but most people who let their MOT lapse simply forgot about it.

Never Miss Your MOT Again

Keeping track of when your MOT expires is one of those small tasks that is easy to put off and easy to forget. Orlo stores your vehicle details and sends you a reminder before your MOT is due, so you can book your test at the right time and avoid any gaps. It takes less than a minute to set up and saves a genuine headache down the line.