Do I Need to Keep Old MOT Certificates?
In the past, it was important you kept all copies of your MOTs. Today, the DVSA keeps an electronic record of your MOT test certificate so it’s not essential that you keep them. The police can also access this electronic record if they need to.
If you know the registration number, you can check the MOT history of any vehicle on the road here.
While you don’t need to keep your old MOT certificates, we recommend that you do. This is because you’ll be able to see any advisories that may need to be taken care of. The MOT certificates also form part of your car’s history and buyers may want to see them.
Keep reading to see other reasons why we recommend you keep your old MOT certificates.
When should you keep your paper MOT certificate?
Any prospective buyer will need to see the most recent certificate as evidence of the car being roadworthy when they buy it. They’ll also want to know that you’re aware of any advisories and have taken care of them before any sale.
It can be useful to have a paper certificate in the event of an accident or insurance claim, but it’s not essential.
How to get a replacement MOT certificate
If you lose your paper MOT certificate, you can download copies of all old MOTs online.
To access old MOT certificates, you’ll need your registration number and your vehicle log book (V5C) document reference number.
You can access and download all your car’s old MOT certificates here.
You can also get a copy of your MOT test certificate from and MOT test centre. They may charge you a fee for a replacement MOT certificate. You'll need to provide the original MOT test number, or the V5C document reference number (which can be found on your V5C certificate). They’re likely to charge you for a new certificate, with a new certificate costing around £10.
How long is an MOT certificate usually valid for?
Your MOT certificate is valid for one year after you’ve had an MOT test completed on your vehicle. You can find the MOT date on your certificate or online using our easy checker tool. You can renew your MOT certificate up to a month (minus a day) before it runs out and your renewal date will remain the same.
Can I drive without an up-to-date MOT?
The short answer: no. If your car is over three years old, the law dictates it must undergo an MOT test. The MOT test must be done every year. (Although as we explain above, your MOT test can be taken up to one calendar month prior to the last test date.)
The only circumstances during which you can legally drive any car on public roads with an expired MOT is to a test centre where you have an MOT test booked.
Without a valid and up-to-date MOT certificate, you'll also be unable to renew your road tax. Without road tax, your car is illegal to drive on public roads and property.
If you've forgotten your MOT renewal date, try our handy tool, "When is my MOT due?" to find out when you'll need to renew your MOT.
Easily book your MOT online at one of our hundreds of garages nationwide.
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