Getting an MOT Replacement Certificate

Getting MOT certified

After a vehicle has undergone an MOT test at an MOT centre either a pass certificate (VT20 form) or fail (VT30 form) certificate is issued depending upon the result. When a VT20 form is issued it might feature minor defects or advisories but the car is legal for use on the road for a year. In case of a refusal of an MOT certificate (VT30), the vehicle has not passed the test. It will need repairs to make roadworthy and clear MOT certification. The test records are stored online with the result and certificate ready to be printed. This makes it possible to access the MOT certificate and history and issue a duplicate if needed.

Getting an MOT certificate duplicate online 

If you have lost or damaged your MOT a duplicate can be issued. All it takes is the 11-digit V5C number and the vehicle registration number. Visit the UK government website’s 'Replace a lost or damaged MOT certificate' page and enter the vehicle registration number. It will pull up the vehicle’s complete history and an option to check MOT certificates issued from May 2018 after entering the V5C registration number. 

The MOT can be printed or saved in PDF form. Having the MOT record online makes it easy to access at any time without the need to log in or sign-up.

Can we get a duplicate MOT reissued at a garage?

You may choose to visit any designated MOT centre and ask them to issue a duplicate copy of your vehicle’s MOT certificate. It need not be the original garage where the MOT test was done. All that is required is the V5C number and the registration number.

What are the different classes for which a duplicate MOT certificate can be reissued?

A duplicate MOT certificate can be reissued for all 7 classes of vehicles. These include the following:

Any kind of car

Different types of caravans

Minibus of any kind

Any type of motorcycle

Any 3-wheeled vehicle

Good carrying vehicles from 3,000 kg to 5,000 kg.

The two exceptions are PSVs (private service vehicles) and HGVs (heavy good vehicles).

What is the process to have a duplicate MOT issued for a PSV or HGV?

For getting a duplicate MOT issued for a PSV, form VTP6 needs to be completed. This will help to apply for an annual fitness certificate or get a PSV MOT certificate replaced. The filled-in form can be submitted online or sent via post. 

In case the MOT certificate for an HGV is lost or damaged, form VTG59 needs to be filled. This form makes it possible to issue duplicate HDV testing and plating documents. In case of a damaged MOT certificate, it should be submitted with the application for the duplicate either online or via post. 

How to avoid getting scammed?

Many unscrupulous online sites claim to offer duplicate MOT documents. To avoid getting scammed, it is recommended to visit the UK government website only. No other company or entity has the legal authority to provide government type duplicate certificates.