If your vehicle is 3 years old or more, you are required by law to have an MOT. The Ministry of Transport test, commonly known as the MOT test, is an annual safety check to ensure the vehicle meets minimum safety standards and levels of exhaust emissions set out by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, formerly VOSA).

During the MOT test the nominated tester, a person accredited by the DVSA to assess your vehicle, will conduct an inspection and a comprehensive series of checks around the vehicle, including the interior, exterior, under the bonnet and under the vehicle. The MOT test ensures the vehicle is in roadworthy condition. However, it is not the same as having your vehicle serviced and the MOT test does not check the general mechanical condition of the vehicle.

The result of each check is recorded – if the vehicle passes, the driver is issued with a VT20 ‘pass’ certificate. If the vehicle fails to meet the required standards set out by the DVSA then a VT30 ‘failure’ document is issued. The assessment is based on the condition of the vehicle on the day.

The nominated tester will separately list and inform you of any ‘advisory’ items that have passed the test but will require attention in the near future so you can keep an eye on them.

The acceptable standards are as recorded in the current DVSA Vehicle Inspection Manual.