Changing your car’s number plate — whether for a private registration or a replacement plate — can raise questions about your MOT status. Many UK drivers wonder if a plate change affects their vehicle’s MOT certificate or history.

In short: your MOT remains valid, but there are some important details to understand about how plate changes are recorded and tracked by the DVLA.

Does Changing Your Number Plate Affect Your MOT Certificate?

When you change your vehicle’s registration number, your MOT certificate doesn’t become invalid. The MOT is linked to your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), not just the registration plate.

However, once the new registration is assigned, your MOT record is updated automatically in the DVSA database. This ensures that your MOT history follows the vehicle, even if the number plate has changed.

You don’t need to re-test your vehicle or apply for a new MOT just because you’ve changed plates.

Updating the MOT Record After a Plate Change

When you change your plate through the DVLA, they will automatically notify the DVSA, which handles MOT data. The update process usually happens within a few days.

If you’ve recently changed your registration and notice that your MOT history hasn’t updated yet, don’t worry — it can take a little time to reflect.

You can check your vehicle’s current MOT and tax status at any time using CheckMot.com. Simply enter your new registration number, and the system will retrieve the latest record directly from the official database.

What Happens If You Remove a Private Plate?

If you remove your private plate and revert to the vehicle’s original registration, the same process applies. The MOT record will transfer back automatically, keeping your previous MOT history intact.

The DVSA keeps all MOT data connected to your car’s VIN, meaning no history or pass results are lost, even if your number plate changes multiple times.

Why It’s Important to Keep Records Updated

Although plate changes don’t affect MOT validity, ensuring all your records — including tax, insurance, and MOT — reflect your current registration is vital.

Incorrect or outdated data could lead to confusion during police checks or when selling your car. Prospective buyers may also struggle to verify your vehicle’s MOT history if the registration isn’t correctly updated.

FAQs

1. Do I need a new MOT after changing my number plate?

No. Your MOT remains valid because it’s linked to the vehicle’s VIN, not the plate.

2. How long does it take for MOT records to update after a plate change?

Usually within a few days, though it can occasionally take up to a week.

3. Can I check my MOT using my old number plate?

If your plate has been changed, you’ll need to use the current registration to find your MOT record on CheckMot.com.

4. Will changing plates affect my MOT history when selling my car?

No. The MOT history is retained under the vehicle’s VIN, ensuring full transparency for future buyers.

Changing your number plate doesn’t impact your MOT validity — but keeping your details updated ensures your MOT history remains accurate and easy to track. Use CheckMot.com anytime to confirm your MOT status and stay compliant on the road.