Understanding your rights when getting an MOT in the UK.
Understanding your rights when getting an MOT, it will save you money.
In the UK, all vehicles over 3 years old are required to have an annual MOT test. This test checks for a number of safety defects. If your vehicle fails, you will not be able to drive it on the road legally.
You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle without a valid MOT.
gov.uk
There are a number of things you should know about your MOT rights, including:
- When you need an MOT: You need to have your vehicle MOT’d every year, starting on the third anniversary of the date it was first registered. For example, if your car was registered on 1st January 2020, you will need to have your first MOT by January 1st 2023.
- Where to get an MOT: MOT tests can be carried out at any approved MOT testing station.
- How much an MOT costs: The cost of an MOT varies depending on the type of vehicle you have. There is a maximum cost an MOT centre can charge you. The average is around £50.
- What happens if your vehicle fails: If your vehicle fails its MOT, you will be given a list of defects that need to be repaired. Dangerous and Major defects need to be repaired as soon as possible as the vehicle is now know to be unsafe to drive. Minor defect are safe but need to be addressed in the near future.
You have a number of rights if your vehicle fails its MOT, including:
- The right to appeal: If you disagree with the results of your MOT, you have the right to appeal.
- The right to a free retest: If your vehicle fails its MOT because of a minor defect, you are entitled to a free retest within 14 days of the original test.
- You have the right to: Watch your vehicle being tested. You can if you so wish view from a designated area or via a monitor.
It is important to know your MOT rights so that you can protect yourself and your vehicle. By understanding your rights, you can ensure that you are treated fairly if your vehicle fails its MOT.
Take a look at our blog, MOT most common fails.
