Can You Change Your MOT Date?

If you have recently bought a used car or it's time to book the first MOT on a new car, the date given for the MOT may not be at a convenient time. If you want to change an MOT date, it is possible but there are a number of factors and constraints to take into consideration.

What are MOT Renewal and Expiry Dates?

All cars that are over 3 years old need an annual MOT to check that they are meeting the legal requirements for emissions and safety. The expiry date on your MOT is when the current inspection of your vehicle runs out, and the MOT renewal date is the date whereby your next test must be completed. There is usually a year between test dates. However, an MOT can be undertaken up to one month (minus a day) before the actual expiry date so you don't need to bring your car in for its MOT on the exact expiry date.

MOT Timing and Due Dates

Your MOT date may not be the same date every year, it depends on when you get the test done. If you get the MOT completed up to a month before the expiry date of your current MOT, the deadline will stay the same. For example, if the expiry date of your MOT is May 20th and you have your car tested on April 25th, the date for the next test will still be May 20th. However, if you forget to have your car tested or miss the expiry date, the MOT date change will be moved to the date the test was completed. So, for example, if the test was due on May 20th but you didn't get to the garage until May 25th, the expiry date for the new MOT will now be May 25th.

What Should You Do If You Forget Your MOT?

Driving without a MOT certificate is illegal unless you are driving to a MOT testing centre with a pre-booked appointment. If you discover that you've missed the MOT change date, book your test as soon as possible at a local Protyre garage. To find a garage near you, use our find a garage function and book in at one of our 180 garages nationwide. Remember to take the appointment details with you, just in case you get stopped by the police on the way to the MOT test centre.

How Can I Remember my MOT Date?

It is the responsibility of all car owners to remember their MOT date. There are some things you can do to help you remember:

- The DVSA can provide you with a free reminder one month before your MOT expires.

- Add the date of your MOT to the calendar on your phone or your computer and set a reminder alert.

At Protyre, we also offer servicing, tyre fitting with brands such as Pirelli and Falken in addition to our MOT service. You can book one of our bronze, silver or gold services online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an MOT if my car is brand new?

No, you only need an MOT once your car reaches 3 years old.

I've forgotten my MOT, what should I do?

Contact a local garage or MOT test centre such as Protyre as soon as possible. Do NOT drive your car unless you are driving to the test centre.

I drive a classic car, do I need an MOT?

If your car is over 40 years old, you may not need an MOT. Check online at GOV.UK to check your MOT status.