How to check a car's MOT history
The free GOV.UK MOT history service shows any car's past MOT results, recorded mileage and advisories. It's essential when buying a used car and handy for checking when your own MOT is due.
- Time
- 5 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 6
- Checked
What you’ll need
- The vehicle's registration number (number plate)
- Internet access
Safety first
- A valid MOT only shows the car met the minimum standard on the day it was tested. It isn't a guarantee of its condition now.
- Be cautious of any site that charges for MOT history alone. The official service is free.
Step by step
-
Step 1: Go to the official service
Use the free Check MOT history service on GOV.UK. You don't need to pay a third-party website for this information.
Next: step 2 -
Step 2: Enter the registration
Type in the registration number and continue. You don't need the owner's permission or any other details.
Next: step 3 -
Step 3: Check the make, model and colour
Confirm the details shown match the car in front of you. If they don't, be very wary: the number plates may not belong to that car.
Next: step 4 -
Step 4: Look at pass and fail results
You'll see each test with its result and date. Results for cars, motorcycles and vans go back to 2005. For tests in England, Scotland and Wales you can see what failed and any advisories (things that were wearing and needed watching) or minor defects.
Next: step 5 -
Step 5: Check the mileage
Each test records the mileage. It should rise steadily over the years. A drop, or a big unexplained gap, can be a sign of clocking (illegally winding the mileage back) or the car being off the road.
Next: step 6 -
Step 6: See when the next MOT is due
The page shows when the current MOT expires. You can also sign up on GOV.UK for a free reminder by text or email before your own car's MOT is due.
Tips
- Repeated advisories for the same item, such as corrosion or worn suspension, suggest problems the seller may not mention.
- Use the separate free GOV.UK vehicle enquiry service to check a car's tax status and details.
- An MOT history doesn't tell you about outstanding finance or whether a car has been written off. Use a paid history check for that before buying.
When to call a professional
Before buying a used car, consider an independent inspection by a qualified mechanic or a motoring organisation, especially for higher-value cars.
Questions people ask
Is the MOT history check free?
Yes, on GOV.UK.
How far back does MOT history go?
For cars, motorcycles and vans, tests done since 2005.
When does a new car need its first MOT?
In England, Scotland and Wales, cars normally need their first MOT by the third anniversary of registration. Northern Ireland runs a different system, starting at four years.
Sources
Checked 9 October 2026. We wrote this guide in our own words, using:
- GOV.UK: check the MOT history of a vehicle (gov.uk)
- GOV.UK: get an MOT reminder (gov.uk)
- GOV.UK: getting an MOT (gov.uk)
- GOV.UK: vehicle enquiry service (gov.uk)
- nidirect: MOT and vehicle testing in Northern Ireland (nidirect.gov.uk)
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Printed from howtoguides.uk/guides/how-to-check-a-cars-mot-history/ · Checked 9 October 2026 · General information only. For gas, electrics, structural work, medical, legal or money decisions, use a qualified professional.