When is your car MOT due? Here’s how to check
Missing your car’s MOT deadline can land you with a fine of up to £1,000—and worse, you could be driving a car that’s no longer safe or legal. The good news? Checking when your MOT is due is quick, easy, and completely free. Here’s how to stay on top of it.
How to check your MOT due date
Why your MOT date matters
The MOT test checks that your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. In the UK, every car over three years old must pass an MOT annually to be legally driven on public roads (unless it’s declared off-road via a SORN).
Letting it lapse—even by a day—could invalidate your insurance and get you fined. That’s why knowing your MOT due date is essential.
How to check your MOT due date
The easiest way to check is by using the Rooster app. Simply enter your number plate and you’ll instantly see:
- The date of your last MOT
- When your next MOT is due
- Your vehicle’s MOT history (pass/fail)
- Common failure points
This helps you prepare in advance and avoid any nasty surprises.
Alternatively, you can use the GOV.UK website—but Rooster’s app puts the MOT data alongside service history, mileage tracking, and vehicle value info, making it a one-stop shop for car maintenance.
Set MOT reminders so you never forget
It’s easy to lose track of dates, especially if you have multiple cars in the household. Rooster offers automatic service and MOT reminders so you’ll get notified in plenty of time. No more digging through paperwork or guessing.
What happens if your MOT has expired?
If your MOT has already expired, you can’t drive your car unless you’re on the way to a pre-booked MOT test. If you’re caught driving outside of that, you could face a fine, penalty points, and even court action.
Why choose Rooster?
Rooster helps you stay on top of your car’s MOT with automatic reminders, instant MOT checks, and discounts of up to 50% on MOTs, services, and repairs. You can also get breakdown cover from £2.99 a month and save up to 40% on insurance with a free Test Drive.
Download the Rooster app today and never miss your MOT again.
