How to check a car's MOT history for free
Updated 2 min readSources: GOV.UK
Quick answer
You can check any vehicle's MOT history for free with its registration number, using GOV.UK or our MOT check. It shows each test's result, the problems found, the mileage recorded and when the next MOT is due. For cars, motorcycles and vans the history covers tests since 2005.
Key facts
- Cost
- Free
- You need
- The registration number (number plate)
- Covers
- Cars, motorcycles and vans: tests since 2005
- Shows
- Results, failures, advisories, mileage, next MOT date
In this article
How to check
- Open our free MOT history check or GOV.UK's MOT history service (opens in a new tab).
- Enter the registration number (number plate).
- Read the results, starting with the most recent test.
What the history shows
- Whether each test was a pass or a fail.
- What failed at each test, and any minor problems or advisories the tester noted.
- The mileage recorded at each test.
- When the next MOT is due.
- On GOV.UK, current and previous MOT certificates for tests in England, Scotland and Wales can be downloaded.
Using it when you buy a used car
The history is one of the most useful free checks you can do before you hand over money. Look for:
- Mileage that rises steadily from test to test. A drop, or a sudden jump, is worth asking the seller about.
- Repeated failures, or the same advisory on several tests. It may never have been fixed.
- Long gaps between tests, or a history that stops early. Ask why.
- Advisories about rust, brakes or suspension. Ask whether they were put right, and ask to see the invoice.
Warning: A clean history does not prove the car is in good condition. The test does not cover the engine, clutch or gearbox: see what an MOT checks. Have a garage inspect the car before you buy.
Get a reminder for the next one
On our MOT check page you can ask for a free email reminder before the next MOT is due. GOV.UK also offers reminders by text or email: see when your MOT is due.
Common questions
How far back does MOT history go?
For cars, motorcycles and vans, tests since 2005. For lorries, buses, coaches and trailers, since 2018. Tests in Northern Ireland are covered since 2017.
Do I need the V5C log book to check?
No. The registration number is enough to see the history. GOV.UK asks for the V5C's 11-digit reference number only to show where a test was done.
Can I look up someone else's car?
Yes. The MOT history of a vehicle can be checked with its registration number, which is how buyers check cars before they buy.
Is the MOT history service really free?
Yes. Both GOV.UK's service and our MOT check are free to use.
Sources
Facts last checked against these pages on .
- GOV.UK: Check the MOT history of a vehicle(opens in a new tab)
- GOV.UK: Check the MOT status of a vehicle(opens in a new tab)
General information for drivers in Great Britain, not legal advice. Northern Ireland has different MOT rules. Spotted a mistake? Email hello@carfixnearme.com. See how we write and check our advice.
Find a garage near you
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