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Can you drive without an MOT

23rd December 2020

According to UK law, its a legal requirement that in order to be able to drive, your vehicle must have a valid MOT certificate – and your vehicle should not be driven without one. But what happens if you drive without an MOT? Find out the risks and the financial implications from our informative guide.

Driving a car without an MOT

Is your car more than three years old? If so, you will require an MOT test each year. If your vehicle is eligible, the MOT test must be taken annually, and up to one month before the last annual test date. The only situations where you are legally allowed to drive your vehicle without a valid MOT are:

  • Driving to a pre-booked MOT appointment (which you can provide evidence for)
  • Driving to a pre-booked appointment for car repairs highlighted from a failed MOT test. Learn more about what happens if your car fails its MOT.

However, it’s important to note that there are some vehicles which are exempt from MOTs, such as historic or classic cars. Vehicles that are found to lack a valid MOT may be identified by a police patrol unit puling you over when driving, or from your vehicle being reported to the police – which may also include parked cars.

What happens if you drive without an MOT ?

If you are found driving a vehicle without a valid MOT, you will be reprimanded in the form of a fine – which is a maximum of £1,000 – and, in some cases, your vehicle may also be impounded. As well as having these consequences, driving a car without an MOT can also invalidate your insurance – meaning if you were involved in an accident, your insurance company may not be able to cover you. It should be noted that being involved in an accident with a faulty vehicle which injures others is an extreme offence – which is a risk you are taking without having your MOT test completed.

In short, driving without an MOT carries substantial financial risks, as well as putting the safety of yourself, your passengers, and other drivers on the road at risk, too.

Ready to book your MOT test now? Book your MOT online with your nearest Merityre Specialist branch – alternatively, get in touch with a member of our expert team for more information on driving without an MOT.