Skip advert
Advertisement

Check a car’s MoT status and history with Auto Express

Need to check that a car is in tip-top condition? Our free MoT checker is here to help

Auto Express MoT checker tool graphic

If you’re thinking about buying a used car or simply want to refresh your memory on your current car, our new Auto Express MoT Checker tool is here to make finding a car’s MoT status and history easier than ever before.

As well as keeping you on the right side of the law, checking a car’s MoT history can also give you a clearer idea of how it’s been treated in the past. If you’re considering buying a used car, frequent MoT failures or a long list of advisories can often be a sign of a lack of maintenance, and this could prove very costly. You can also look out for issues such as inconsistent mileage reports. 

Knowing these details about a used car’s background could help you to knock a few pounds off the asking price, or may even persuade you to walk away completely in some circumstances.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Whether you own or are thinking of buying the car in question, all you’ll need is its registration number and you’ll be ready to use our Auto Express MoT Checker tool. It’s quick and easy to use and understand, and you won’t even need to leave our website.

How does the Auto Express MoT Checker work?

Simply enter your registration number and our free MoT Checker will provide you with the car’s current MoT status and expiry date, as well as a full record of its previous MoT tests, advisories, defects, recorded mileage and even any applicable manufacturer recalls.

There’s no need to worry about jotting down the car’s MoT expiry date, either, as we can also provide you with a reminder that will let you know when you have 14 days left to book your next test.

Due to the way that the Driving Standards Agency (DVSA) stores data, we can only provide MoT history information for tests that have been undertaken in England, Scotland or Wales since 2005. Results for tests carried out in Northern Ireland are available from 2017 onwards. New results will appear on a car’s history report as soon as the MoT testing centre records the test.

How much is your car worth? Find out with our free car valuation tool...

Skip advert
Advertisement

Shane is responsible for looking after the day-to-day running of the Auto Express website and social media channels. Prior to joining Auto Express in 2021, he worked as a radio producer and presenter for outlets such as the BBC.

Find a car with the experts

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Dreaming of a new car this Christmas? Why the holidays are the perfect time to treat yourself
Buy a car this Christmas

Dreaming of a new car this Christmas? Why the holidays are the perfect time to treat yourself

Deputy editor Richard Ingram believes that the Christmas lull is the perfect time to get a new car
Opinion
20 Dec 2025
What are Cat N and Cat S cars? Car insurance write-off categories explained
Crashed car

What are Cat N and Cat S cars? Car insurance write-off categories explained

If a car is written off by the insurance provider, it could be assigned Category A, B, S or N status, but what does this mean and how do write-off cla…
Tips & advice
25 Nov 2025
Want the best used car? Take a good look at the previous owner
Opinion - owners

Want the best used car? Take a good look at the previous owner

Auto Express’ senior content editor explains why some good old-fashioned detective work can help you find the very best second-hand buy
Opinion
16 Nov 2025
Can you lease a used car? Second-hand car leasing deals guide
People signing dealership paperwork

Can you lease a used car? Second-hand car leasing deals guide

When we think of leasing, we tend to think of new cars, but leasing a used car is an option worth looking at
Tips & advice
10 Nov 2025

Most Popular

New Jaguar GT ride review: is the controversial luxury EV a proper Jaaaaag?
Jaguar GT 2025 - front tracking

New Jaguar GT ride review: is the controversial luxury EV a proper Jaaaaag?

100mph-plus sprint round test track reveals a comfortable, high-performance GT with plenty of promise and true Jag credentials.
Road tests
17 Dec 2025
Dacia Spring EV updated for 2026, and it’s still got a tiny price tag
Dacia Spring facelift - front

Dacia Spring EV updated for 2026, and it’s still got a tiny price tag

The Dacia Spring has been improved for 2026, but a replacement could come soon
News
16 Dec 2025
Car Deal of the Day: The posh Peugeot 3008 for £210 a month is a perfect Christmas gift
Peugeot E-3008 - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: The posh Peugeot 3008 for £210 a month is a perfect Christmas gift

This is probably the cheapest the Peugeot 3008 has been all year. No wonder it’s our Deal of the Day for December 19.
News
19 Dec 2025