MOT confusion leaves 7.6 million motorists susceptible to racking up £1,000 positive

Almost a quarter of MOTs were carried out late last year according to analysis by breakdown provider, Green Flag. Figures show that 7.6 million vehicles were late for their MOT last year.

Shockingly, 8% of MOT tests were over a month overdue. In the first six months of 2024, 3.6 million vehicles were late for their MOT, with the same proportion over a month overdue.

Further research shows that a third of drivers wrongly believe it is legal to drive without a valid MOT, as long as they have a test booked. However, driving without a valid MOT is only permitted if you are driving to a pre-arranged MOT test, or a garage for repairs after a failed MOT.

There is no grace period for expired MOTs, a car becomes illegal to drive at midnight on the MOT expiry date. Those caught without a valid MOT can face hefty fines, vehicle impoundment, penalty points, and potentially lose their driving license if the vehicle is found to be dangerous.

Katie Lomas, Managing Director of Green Flag, commented: “Driving without a valid MOT can pose a serious risk, not just to yourself but to other road users. An expired MOT certificate can mean vital safety issues are being overlooked, increasing the chance of breakdowns and accidents.”

Many drivers appear to be unaware of the consequences of driving without a valid MOT certificate with 16% of UK drivers oblivious to the fact their insurance could be invalidated. Worryingly almost a quarter of motorists don’t know they could be slapped with a fine as much as £1,000.

Bigger still, is the staggering 33% of people who aren’t aware that driving a vehicle that has failed its MOT because of a ‘dangerous’ problem can result in a fine of up to £2,500, a driving ban and three penalty points.

Almost a quarter of those who drove with an expired MOT said they drove over 100 miles before obtaining a new valid MOT certificate. On average, drivers said they had travelled 67 miles before the expired MOT was renewed. Of those who admit to not getting their MOT done on time, seven per cent say they didn’t think they would get caught doing so, as their vehicle was in good condition.

Almost a third of drivers aren’t aware that you can get your MOT check completed up to a month (minus a day) before it runs out and still keep the same renewal date as you had in the current year.

Katie Lomas added: “Regular vehicle checks and timely MOT renewals are crucial to keeping our roads safe and for drivers to avoid substantial fines and penalties. To keep up to date with MOT deadlines, you can register for the for the MOT Reminder subscription via the DVSA.”

There are free tools to help ensure drivers book in their test, the DVSA runs a free text message service to remind drivers when their car’s MOT is due. Over five million people were registered for the MOT Reminder as of 30 June 2024.

Drivers can sign up for free reminders at Get MOT reminders.