Your vehicle can either pass or fail the MOT.
Passing the MOT
If your vehicle passes the MOT:
- you’ll get an MOT certificate from the test centre
- it will be recorded in the MOT database
You might also get a list of ‘minor’ or ‘advisory’ problems to monitor or fix in the future.
Failing the MOT
Your vehicle will fail if the test result lists ‘dangerous’ or ‘major’ problems with your vehicle. You might not be allowed to drive until you fix the problems.
You might also get a list of ‘minor’ or ‘advisory’ problems to monitor or fix in the future.
If your vehicle fails the MOT:
- you’ll get a ‘refusal of an MOT test certificate’ from the test centre
- it will be recorded in the MOT database
You can appeal the result if you think it’s wrong.
Driving a vehicle that’s failed
You can take your vehicle away if:
- your current MOT certificate is still valid
- no ‘dangerous’ problems were listed in the MOT
Otherwise, you’ll need to get it repaired before you can drive.
If you can take your vehicle away, it must still meet the minimum standards of roadworthiness at all times.
You can be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and get 3 penalty points for driving a vehicle that has failed its MOT because of a ‘dangerous’ problem.