What happens if my MOT fails?

our vehicle can either pass or fail the MOT. If it fails, you’ll get a list of things that need to be fixed.

Passing the MOT

If your vehicle passes the MOT:

• you’ll get an MOT certificate from the test centre
• it will be recorded in the MOT database

Mileage reading

The MOT certificate will show the mileage recorded at the current and previous 3 test passes. This is shown as the ‘odometer reading and history’.

Report any mistakes with the latest reading to the MOT centre within 7 days. They will give you a replacement certificate.

Mistakes on an earlier mileage can’t be changed.

Failing the MOT

If your vehicle fails the MOT:

• you’ll get a ‘refusal of an MOT test certificate’ from the test centre
• it will be recorded in the MOT database

You can appeal the result if you think it’s wrong.

Driving a vehicle that’s failed

You must not drive the vehicle on the road if it fails the test, even if the MOT hasn’t run out, except to:

• have the failed defects fixed
• a pre-arranged MOT test appointment

You can be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and get 3 penalty points for driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition.