How to Cancel a MOT Appointment in the UK

Booking your MOT in advance is a smart move, but sometimes plans change and you might need to cancel your appointment. Whether your vehicle is off the road, you've sold it, or you've simply made an error during booking, this guide will explain exactly how to cancel a MOT test across the UK.

For UK motorists, knowing your options and the correct process helps avoid confusion or penalties. Here’s everything you need to know.

When Might You Need to Cancel a MOT?

There are several reasons why you may want or need to cancel a MOT appointment:

You’ve sold or scrapped the vehicle
The vehicle is being repaired and won’t be ready
You booked the test at the wrong location
You’ve decided to SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) the vehicle
A change in personal schedule

Whatever the reason, acting quickly and correctly is key.

How to Cancel a MOT Through GOV.UK

If you’ve booked your MOT test through the GOV.UK website, cancelling is usually straightforward:

Find your booking confirmation email – This contains your booking reference number.
Visit the official cancellation page – Go to the GOV.UK website and navigate to the MOT booking section.
Enter your details – You’ll need your registration number and booking reference.
Confirm cancellation – Once submitted, you’ll receive an email confirming the cancellation.

It’s advisable to cancel at least one full working day before your appointment to be eligible for a refund if you paid in advance.

Cancelling a MOT with a Private Garage

If you booked directly with a local garage, the cancellation process may vary:

Call the garage – Contact them as soon as possible and provide your registration number and booking time.
Email if required – Some garages might request cancellation confirmation in writing.
Check refund policy – Independent garages may have different rules on refunds or rescheduling fees.

Many garages listed on Checkmot.com provide easy booking and cancellation options—always check their terms when scheduling a test.

Can You Reschedule Instead?

Yes, in many cases, rescheduling your MOT is a better alternative. Especially if your test is due soon, changing the date instead of cancelling can ensure you remain legally compliant.

If your current MOT certificate is about to expire, delaying too long without a new test may leave you unable to legally drive your vehicle.

What Happens If You Don’t Cancel?

Failing to attend without cancelling may result in:

Losing your test fee
No priority for rebooking
Poor reputation with your garage

Always cancel or reschedule as soon as possible to avoid issues.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to cancel a MOT appointment is just one part of responsible vehicle ownership. Whether using the government portal or a private garage, act early and keep your confirmation details handy.

Visit Checkmot.com to manage your MOT needs easily, from checking due dates to finding local test centres.