MOT Reminder Service
A test version of a new government service has launched to remind drivers by text message and email when their MOT is due. The GOV.UK service, developed by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), makes it easy to get a reminder every year when your vehicle’s MOT is due.
When you sign up, you’ll get a reminder:
- 4 weeks before your MOT is due
- 2 weeks before your MOT is due, if you still haven’t had it tested
You’ll also get alerts that your vehicle no longer has an MOT.
You just need the vehicle’s number plate (registration number) and a mobile phone number or email address. You’ll get a reminder every year until you unsubscribe.
Research by DVSA has revealed that around 28% of cars will be overdue at any one time. Most of these are down to drivers forgetting to get it done, rather than deliberately avoiding having the test done.
If you drive a vehicle without a valid MOT, you’re breaking the law. The only exceptions are to drive it:
- to or from somewhere to be repaired
- to a pre-arranged MOT test
You’re also risking your own life and the lives of your passengers and other road users.
You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle without a valid MOT.
The 2016 reported road casualties report for Great Britain showed that roadworthiness of vehicles was a factor in 1,687 accidents.
Transport Minister, Baroness Sugg, said: "We have some of the safest roads in the world, but we are always looking at ways to make them even safer. Booking your next MOT is easy to overlook but it plays an important role in making sure the vehicles on our roads are safe and meeting high environmental standards. Getting a text or email will serve as a useful prompt to make sure people get their vehicle checked out on time."