MOT Testing – Myth of the Grace Period

No doubt you’ll be aware that to drive your vehicle on a public road, it must be classified as ‘roadworthy’ and, for the most part, must be tested every three years. However, if you are under the misapprehension that there is a grace period for lapsed MOT’s, then you could be prosecuted if caught; more information on this below.

What is an MOT

The MOT test checks that your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards, and is therefore deemed ‘roadworthy’. Having your vehicle serviced is not the same thing and doesn’t check its general mechanical condition.

There are a couple of leaflets that you can refer to for more information: ‘Your car and the MOT’ and ‘Your motorbike and the MOT’, both of which include a list of the parts on your vehicle that will be tested.

You must get an MOT test every year once your vehicle is 3 years old or, in some cases, 1 year old – generally in respect of taxis, ambulances and people carriers with more than 13 seats – click here for more information, or give us a call if you’re in doubt.

MOT renewal

You’ll then need to renew your MOT before it expires. The earliest you can do this is 1 month before your current MOT expires and this date will be printed on the pass certificate.
You must use an approved MOT test centre to get your MOT and only centres showing the blue sign with three white triangles can carry out your MOT. Roy Chapman Ltd is an approved MOT test centre and our trained technicians carry out all MOT’s on-site.

Additionally we are part of Motor Codes, or the Motor Industry Code of Practice as it was previously known, which is a government-backed self-regulatory body for the motor industry. You can learn more on this here.

MOT expiry

If your MOT has expired, you cannot drive your vehicle on the road, your insurance will be invalid and you could be prosecuted if caught.
The only exception to this rule is if you’ve already booked an MOT and are driving your vehicle to the test centre!

More information

For a detailed breakdown of what’s covered in an MOT test, you can download and read the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency’s (VOSA’s) MOT inspection manuals and guides. Alternatively do give us a call on tel: 01442 871234 and we’ll be delighted to answer any questions.

The price for an MOT test at Roy Chapman Ltd starts at just £38. Terms and conditions apply, please ask for details.