How early can I MOT my car?
Wednesday 24th May 2023
Your MOT occurs annually. It can come around quite quickly and catch you at the wrong time – when bills are due or even when your annual car insurance also needs renewing. So, if you are looking to balance out the outgoings and get ahead of the game this year, you can book in your MOT early. But exactly how early can you MOT a car? Find out more in our guide.
How long is an MOT valid for?
An MOT on any vehicle is valid for one year. This means you have exactly one year from your last test until your next one is due. However, there is the option to MOT your car early.
How early can I MOT my car
You can MOT your car up to a month (minus a day) before it runs out. Although you have renewed early, your renewal date will still stay the same on your certificate for next year.
However, you can renew your car even earlier if required. If you renew your MOT up to more than one calendar month before, the test will then be valid until 12 months from the new test date. For example, if your certificate expires on the 5th April, but you had the MOT test on the 7th March – your new certificate would be valid until 7th March the following year.
Is there an MOT grace period?
You may have heard of an MOT grace period; however this does not exist. If your MOT test has been taken early and it fails, you should not be driving your car even though you may have an MOT certificate that hasn’t reached its expiry date yet. A failed MOT means your car is not seen as roadworthy and can be dangerous to you and other drivers on the road. The DVSA state your vehicle needs to meet the minimum standards of being roadworthy at all times. If you are caught driving without an MOT, you will most likely receive a fine – and, in some cases you may receive points on your licence.
What if my MOT has passed its expiry date?
If your vehicle has an expired MOT, you are not permitted to drive your car or park it on the road. However, there are some exceptions to drive a vehicle that’s passed its MOT expiry date which include:
- Driving to or from somewhere to be repaired
- To a pre-arranged MOT test
Ready to book in your own MOT today? Find out all the information you need to know by contacting a member of our specialist team or locate your nearest Formula One Autocentres today.
