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 Wilkinson senior content editor auto express

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.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Old Cat C and Cat D insurance write-off categories explained
Two cars in a head-on collision

Old Cat C and Cat D insurance write-off categories explained

A new write-off category system was introduced in 2017, but plenty of Cat C and Cat D cars are still on the used market. We explain what these categor…
Tips & advice
24 Sep 2026
How do I find my old car?
Rover SD1 (1976-1986) icon - Front 3/4 stationary

How do I find my old car?

If you find yourself pining for a long-lost car you’ve owned in the past, it’s easier than you think to discover where it is now
Tips & advice
14 Sep 2026
A long car warranty is great, if the brand sticks around to honour it
Opinion - car warranties

A long car warranty is great, if the brand sticks around to honour it

News reporter Ellis Hyde considers why sometimes it pays to do your homework when you’re buying a new car
Opinion
27 Aug 2026
Buyers using AI for car research are missing the details that really matter
Opinion - Darren AI what car should I buy?

Buyers using AI for car research are missing the details that really matter

Creative director Darren Wilson says being specific with your Al prompts is key to getting the right information on a potential purchase
Opinion
20 Aug 2026

Most Popular

New Renault 5 updates unlock more range, but the price stays the same
2026 Renault 5 update - front overhead

New Renault 5 updates unlock more range, but the price stays the same

Clever tweaks have unlocked greater efficiency, plus buyers have more scope for customisation
News
22 Sep 2026
Skoda Peaq review
Skoda Peaq 2026 - Ellis Hyde

Skoda Peaq review

The Skoda Peaq is the Czech brand's biggest and most expensive car ever, and is a worthy flagship
In-depth reviews
23 Sep 2026
Best new cars coming soon: all the big new car launches due in 2026, 2027 and beyond
Best new cars coming soon 30/06/26

Best new cars coming soon: all the big new car launches due in 2026, 2027 and beyond

Here are the most important new cars from Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Dacia, Ferrari, Ford, Skoda and more
Best cars & vans
21 Sep 2026

Find a car with the experts