Frequently asked questions
Everything you might want to know before you check a vehicle's official MOT history.
About MOT Atlas
Is this the same information as the official MOT record?
Yes. The test results, mileages and expiry dates shown here are read directly from the official MOT database, so they match the current recorded history for that vehicle. MOT Atlas only changes how the record is presented.
Do I need an account to check a vehicle?
No. There is no sign up and no account. Enter a registration number and the record is returned straight away.
How current is the data?
Every result is answered live at the moment you search, and the result page states the date and time of the answer. Records are updated when a garage enters the test result, so a test carried out today may take a short while to appear.
Finding a vehicle
How do I enter a registration number?
Type it into the yellow plate on the home page. Upper and lower case both work, and you can include or leave out the space. For example, AB12 CDE, ab12cde and AB12CDE all find the same vehicle.
The registration number is not found. What should I do?
Check the plate for a mistyped character and try again. If the number is correct, the vehicle may have no MOT record yet, may be used only on private land, or may be exempt from MOT testing.
Can I check a vehicle from Great Britain?
MOT records are held separately in Great Britain. This service covers vehicles recorded in Northern Ireland.
Understanding the result
What does a valid MOT status mean?
It means the vehicle passed its most recent MOT and that certificate has not yet expired. It confirms the vehicle met the minimum standards on the day of the test, not that it is in good condition today.
What is the difference between a major, minor and dangerous defect?
A dangerous defect means the vehicle must not be driven and the test is failed. A major defect also fails the test. A minor defect is recorded but does not fail the test. Advisories are notes for the owner and also do not affect the result.
Why is the mileage lower than the last recorded reading?
A reading that goes down, or jumps by an implausible amount, can indicate a mileage discrepancy. It is worth investigating before buying a vehicle. If you think a record is wrong, contact the testing garage or the issuing authority.
Can I print or save the result?
Yes. The result page is designed to print cleanly, with the vehicle plate, status and full test timeline laid out on the page.
Still stuck? Send us a message with the registration number and a description of the problem.
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Have the number plate to hand. The full official MOT history takes a few seconds to load.
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