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MOT · 3 min read

What Happens at an MOT Test? How Long It Takes and What to Bring

An MOT is a routine process, and knowing how it runs takes most of the stress out of it. Here's how a standard car test goes.

Before you arrive

Most garages quote 45 to 60 minutes for the test itself. There's no official time limit, so ask how long they'll need the car when you book. A few things are worth sorting first, because a tester can refuse to start the test:

• The car is very dirty. A tester can refuse if the car or its parts are so dirty that examining them is unreasonably difficult.
• It has no fuel or oil. The car has to be fit to be driven for the test.
• Loose items are in the way. A load that isn't secure, or that stops a proper inspection, can be a reason to refuse. Empty the boot.
• Something won't open. If the bonnet, boot, doors or fuel cap are meant to open easily but don't, the tester has to abandon or refuse the test.

What to bring

Usually nothing but the car and a way to pay, since some test stations ask for payment in advance. The tester registers the car on DVSA's system using its actual details, so you don't need your previous MOT certificate or service history. DVSA's guidance says the V5C logbook, or other proof of first use, may be needed in particular cases, mainly with cherished plates or where the age of the car isn't clear from its registration.

During the test

The tester works through a fixed inspection (here's the full list of what's checked). They can road test the car only where it's needed to confirm a result, and they can't take anything apart. You can usually watch from the viewing area, as long as you don't interrupt.

After a pass

The result is recorded in DVSA's MOT database, and it appears in the car's free test history, along with any minor defects or advisories the tester noted. You can look at yours with our MOT check.

After a fail

You'll be given the reasons. A car fails if any defect is classed as major or dangerous. If your previous MOT is still valid and nothing dangerous was found you can drive the car away, otherwise it has to be repaired first. Our guide to the four defect categories explains the difference, and the retest guide covers what happens next and when it's free.

If the garage refuses to test

If a tester refuses, for example because the car is too dirty or has no fuel, you can ask for the refusal in writing and no fee is charged for it. Fix the problem and rebook.