MOT Date Calculator

Find when your next MOT is due. First MOT 3 years after registration, then annual.

Last updated: April 2026 · Source: GOV.UK — Getting an MOT

Check your V5C or MOT certificate

Disclaimer

This calculator is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial or tax advice. All calculations are performed locally in your browser — no personal data is collected or sent to our servers. Rates and thresholds are sourced from HMRC and GOV.UK and are updated for the current tax year. Always verify results with HMRC or consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions.

How It Works

All vehicles in the UK over 3 years old must have a valid MOT certificate. The MOT test checks roadworthiness including brakes, lights, steering, suspension, tyres, exhaust emissions and bodywork. The maximum fee is set by the DVSA at £54.85 for a standard car (2025/26). Many garages charge less as a loss leader.

You can check your MOT due date for free using the DVLA's online service with your registration number. Your MOT can be done up to one month before the expiry date without losing any days from the next certificate — the new MOT will run from the old one's expiry date.

Common MOT failure items include blown bulbs (£5-£15 to fix), worn tyres (£60-£120 each), damaged windscreens (£75-£350), worn brake pads (£100-£250 per axle) and emissions failures (£100-£500+ depending on cause). This calculator estimates the cost of your MOT plus likely repairs based on your vehicle's age and type.

Example: 8-year-old Ford Fiesta MOT

  1. MOT test fee: £45 (typical garage price)
  2. Likely advisory: front brake pads worn
  3. Brake pad replacement (front): £120
  4. Rear wiper blade (failed): £15
  5. Estimated total MOT cost: £180
  6. Book 1 month early to allow time for repairs

Source: GOV.UK — Getting an MOT

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the MOT Date Calculator do?
Find when your next MOT is due. First MOT 3 years after registration, then annual. All calculations are performed in your browser using official UK rates and thresholds.
Does this use current UK rates?
Yes. This calculator uses the latest UK rates for vehicle tax, fuel duty and other motoring costs as of the 2025/26 financial year.
Is this suitable for electric vehicles?
From April 2025, electric vehicles are no longer exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax). This calculator accounts for EV-specific rates where applicable.