MOT Retest Rules: What You Need to Know

Failing your MOT test can be frustrating, but understanding the MOT retest rules can save you time, stress, and money. Whether your vehicle fails due to a minor fault or a major safety concern, knowing what happens next and how to proceed is essential.

What Is an MOT Retest?

An MOT retest is a follow-up test required after your vehicle has failed its initial MOT. It checks whether the issues noted on the first test have been fixed and ensures your vehicle now meets the legal roadworthiness standards set by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency).

When Can You Get a Free Retest?

You may be eligible for a free retest if you leave your vehicle at the test centre for repair and it is retested within 10 working days. In this case, only the failed items are rechecked, and you won’t need to pay the full fee again.

Alternatively, if you take your vehicle away for repairs but return it to the same test centre by the next working day, you may still qualify for a free partial retest.

Items Eligible for a Free Retest

Some minor repairs allow for a free retest even if you take the car away. These include items such as:

• Windscreen wipers
• Mirrors
• Tyres
• Lights and bulbs
• Number plates
• Seatbelts

However, for more serious faults (like braking systems or structural issues), you’ll likely need a full retest and may need to pay the full fee again.

What If You Miss the Retest Window?

If your vehicle is not retested within 10 working days of the original MOT failure, you will need to book and pay for a full MOT test again. It’s important to plan ahead, especially if parts are delayed or your mechanic needs extra time.

Can You Drive a Car That Has Failed Its MOT?

If your MOT has failed but the certificate is still valid (i.e., it hasn’t expired), you can drive your vehicle — as long as it’s roadworthy. However, if the vehicle has a dangerous defect, you cannot legally drive it until the issue is fixed, regardless of the certificate's expiry date.

Using CheckMOT.com to Stay on Top of MOTs

At CheckMOT.com, you can easily check your MOT status, set reminders, and learn more about what to do in case of a failure. Understanding your MOT retest rights helps you make better decisions — and avoid unnecessary costs.

Final Thoughts

Knowing the MOT retest rules helps reduce stress and potential expenses. Always clarify with your MOT test centre about retest timelines and eligibility. A bit of preparation can go a long way in keeping your vehicle safe and road-legal.