Can I drive without an MOT?

Wednesday 16th November 2022

What is an MOT?

An MOT is an annual test that consists of various checks to ensure that your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. It is required by law that every vehicle in the UK that is over 3 years old, has an MOT test to ensure that it is kept in a roadworthy condition. To find out if you car has an MOT certificate and when it runs out, or you will need is your vehicles registration number.  

Can I drive without an MOT? 

It is illegal to drive your car without an MOT. Once your MOT has expired, you will no longer be able to drive your vehicle as you will be doing so illegally. It is also worth knowing that your vehicle's MOT status is accessible by police cars and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, so it is possible you will be caught driving without one 

What is the penalty for driving a car without an MOT? 

The penalty for driving without a valid MOT certificate is a fine of up to £1,000. Not having a valid MOT certificate will also invalidate your car insurance which could lead to a fine of £300 and up to 6 points on your license. In some cases, your vehicle could be seized or destroyed by police if found to be uninsured. If the case goes to court, you could be given an unlimited fine or disqualified from driving. 

It is also important to know that your car cannot be taxed if you do not have a valid MOT - meaning this could also result in a fine. If your car has failed its MOT because dangerous defects were found, you should not drive your car as it would be an offence to do so. This could result in a fine of up to £2,500, 3 penalty points or being banned from driving. Also, if your MOT has expired, you legally cannot drive or park your vehicle on the road.  

When is it legal to drive without a valid MOT certificate? 

In most cases, driving your vehicle without a valid MOT certificate is illegal. However, there are some exceptions: 

• If your vehicle is less than three years old. Although you should still book a yearly service to ensure your car is functioning as it should be. 

• If your vehicle fails its MOT test on a major defect, you can still drive it until the current certificate expires (i.e if your test was before the expiry date of your MOT).  

• If your MOT has expired, you can only drive it directly to a garage for an MOT retest. Although you must be able to provide proof that you have an appointment booked at a garage if stopped by police. 

• If your vehicle has failed its MOT, you are permitted to drive your vehicle to a garage that can carry out the necessary repairs if your test centre does not have the capability to do so. 

Looking for more information regarding your next car MOT? Head to our MOT advice section for everything you need to know. Alternatively, book your MOT test online at your local Formula One Autocentre or contact our helpful team today to find out more.