Motorists are being urged “don’t forget” to sign up for a free service that could save them from a £1,000 fine. Registering for this online tool could help keep track of when your vehicle’s MOT is due.
An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a mandatory annual safety and emissions check for the majority of UK vehicles over three years old. It examines key components such as brakes, lights, tyres, steering, and exhaust systems to ensure they meet legal roadworthiness and environmental standards.
A valid MOT is required by law every year. Failing to renew your MOT could not only put lives at risk but could also land you with a hefty penalty.
GOV.UK states: “You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle without a valid MOT.” Thankfully, there are steps you can take to make sure you never miss the deadline.
The Government website provides a free MOT reminder service. You can use this to get MOT reminders by text message or email.
In a post shared on social media platform X, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) encouraged motorists to get signed up. It said: “Don’t forget to add your vehicles to your Driver and vehicles account.
“You can then view your vehicle details, including when your MOT expires. Not signed up yet? It’s easy.”
View 3 ImagesYou can be fined up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle without a valid MOT(Image: Getty)
Once you’ve registered for an account and opted into MOT reminders, you’ll receive a notification one month before your car, van or motorbike MOT runs out. For lorries, buses or large trailers, you’ll be alerted two months in advance. To register, you’ll need:
- The vehicle’s registration plate (number plate)
- A mobile telephone number or email address
The service can be accessed via GOV.UK here. After answering a few quick questions on the site, you’ll be sent a link by email or text message which must be clicked to complete the registration.
View 3 ImagesThe account can also remind you when your vehicle tax is due(Image: Getty)
You can check when your next reminder is scheduled or unsubscribe to stop receiving reminders. You’ll need:
- The vehicle’s number plate (registration number)
- The email address or mobile number you registered with
You must unsubscribe to stop receiving reminders if a vehicle has been:
- Sold
- Transferred to someone else
- Scrapped or written-off
- Registered as off the road
You can also unsubscribe by:
Article continues below
- Following the instructions in the text message you received
- Clicking the unsubscribe link in the email you’ve been sent
You can discover more by visiting GOV.UK here or contacting the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). You can call the DVSA customer service centre on 0300 123 9000 from Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.