Free MOT history check
Enter a number plate to see MOT status, expiry date, every past test, mileage and advisories, summarised in one place.
Free. No sign-up. Data from the DVSA MOT history database.
What you get with every check
MOT status and expiry
Whether the MOT is valid, the exact expiry date and how many days are left.
Full test history
Every pass and fail since 2005, with failure reasons, minor defects and advisories.
Mileage chart
The odometer reading from each test on one chart, with any drop in mileage highlighted.
Repeat advisories
Items noted in more than one year grouped together, so you can see what keeps coming back.
Safety recall flag
A warning when the manufacturer lists an outstanding recall for the vehicle.
Printable report
Save or print the summary to take to a viewing or keep with the car's paperwork.
Checking a used car before you buy?
The MOT history is one of the best free clues to how a car has been looked after. Look for:
- Mileage that goes down between tests, or a sudden jump after years of low use.
- The same advisory year after year, such as corroded brake pipes or worn suspension parts, which suggests the work was never done.
- Fails for structural corrosion or brakes, which can be expensive to put right.
- Long gaps between tests, which may mean the car was off the road.
An MOT history check does not show outstanding finance, write-off status or whether a car is stolen. For those you need a paid vehicle history check.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the official GOV.UK MOT checker?
No. MOTstory is an independent website run by MHAFS Ltd. We use the same DVSA MOT history data that powers the official service, under the Open Government Licence, and add a summary, a mileage chart and repeat-advisory grouping. The official free service is at gov.uk/check-mot-history.
Is the MOT check free?
Yes. Checking MOT status, expiry date, test history, mileage and advisories is free and needs no sign-up.
How far back does MOT history go?
For cars, vans and motorcycles tested in Great Britain, records go back to 2005. Tests in Northern Ireland are available from 2017.
Why is there no MOT history for my car?
Cars in Great Britain do not need an MOT until they are three years old (four in Northern Ireland), so newer cars have no test records yet. Some exempt, imported or historic vehicles also have none.
When can I get my MOT done?
You can have an MOT up to a month (minus a day) before your current certificate runs out and still keep the same renewal date.
What does it mean if the mileage went down?
A lower reading than the previous test can be a typing error at the test centre, a replaced speedometer or instrument cluster, or a sign the mileage has been altered. Ask the seller for an explanation and supporting paperwork.