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4.7 out of 5 based on 186 reviews

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Find local MOT garages across the UK

There are 23,000+ MOT testing centres across the UK. Our service finds the closest, highest-rated, and most reliable options for your MOT test.

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Choose the best MOT testing service for your vehicle

An MOT test is an annual inspection that checks the safety and roadworthiness of your vehicle. If your vehicle is more than 3 years old, it needs a valid MOT certificate for you to legally drive it on UK roads. And you can only get one by passing the MOT inspection.

When you enter your vehicle registration, postcode, and service requirements, our AI automatically finds MOT testing centres in your area. From there, you can browse local MOT garages by price or rating, check availability, and even schedule an appointment without leaving our website.

We'll also send you a personalised video quotation to help you understand the MOT test process and requirements. And once you book with one of our certified garages, they'll receive your information and be ready to help you with your MOT test.

If you need an MOT test on Saturday or Sunday, you can find MOT testing centres that offer weekend appointments. And if you need additional services (like a full service or repair work), you can also use our tool for that.

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4.7 out of 5 based on 186 reviews

MOT & service

4.7 out of 5 based on 186 reviews

Benefits of booking your MOT test with us

Finding an MOT garage on your own is exhausting. We've done all the hard work for you.

Read verified, authentic reviews

Post-MOT, every customer has the opportunity to leave a review for the service they received. We have no affiliates or sponsors, so every review is 100% authentic and unbiased. When you can make an informed decision, you hold all the power. That means garages using our platform have the incentive to offer high-quality MOT testing services, be transparent about the cost of potential repairs (in the event you fail), deliver higher-quality work, and give an all-around better customer experience.

Simple and convenient booking process

Rather than calling around and visiting dozens of websites, you can compare and book the best MOT testing service in just a few clicks. No more wasting time on hold or trying to navigate complicated booking systems. No more wondering if the testing centre got your details right (or if they're even available). With us, you can find all the information you need in one place and book with confidence.

Personalised MOT quote and test breakdown

When you book with us, you'll receive a unique, personalised video quote including MOT service requirements, cost breakdowns, and what to expect on the day of your test. This will help you understand exactly what you need to do to prep your car (and potentially save you from a fail on the test date). Since we also provide a detailed breakdown of related service costs, you can avoid billing surprises and budget accordingly.

MyGarage: your personal dashboard

When you create an account with us, you'll instantly gain access to tools and reminders that help you plan your next MOT test and car services. Keep track of your MOT certificate and upcoming due dates, schedule reminders for future tests, and keep track of when you need additional services like a full service or repair work. You can also keep tabs on vehicle tax, insurance, and car valuation right within our system.

Save money and time

At no cost to you, we make it easy for you to stay on top of your vehicle's maintenance and requirements. Plus, we help you avoid costly mistakes, like booking the "cheapest" MOT testing service that turns out to be sub-par, or forgetful moments like missing an MOT renewal date. And we provide the convenience of handling everything vehicle-related in one place, so you can spend less time worrying about your car and more time enjoying the open road.

Access our extensive information and resources

On our website, you'll find a wealth of videos and articles about MOT testing and other vehicle-related topics. Learn about common vehicle problems, how to avoid them, what to do if you fail your MOT test, and tons more. Before you even reach out to an MOT garage, you'll be much more informed about the process and your vehicle's specific needs.

Car parts tested in the MOT

These are some of the important parts of your car that will be checked in the MOT.

The DVLA uses the MOT test to confirm your vehicle meets certain safety and environmental standards. During the test, trained technicians will inspect numerous parts of your car, including lights, tires, brakes, steering and suspension, and emissions. They will not, however, check your engine, clutch, or gearbox. Here's an in-depth look at what your tester will look for:

1. Body & vehicle structure

No sharp edges that could cause injury
Free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas
No inappropriate repairs or modifications to the vehicle structure

2. Towbars

Free from inappropriate repairs or modifications
Functional with electrical socket
Secure in correct position

3. Fuel system

No leaks and the fuel cap must fasten securely
Free from defects and conditions that could lead to leaks
Hoses and pipes must be properly secured and in good condition

4. Exhaust emissions

Meets the emissions level requirement for the vehicle's age and fuel type
Exhaust system is complete and free of serious leaks
Metered smoke test (for diesel vehicles)

5. Exhaust system

Securely attached and without serious leaks
Silencers must work properly to reduce noise effectively
No holes or rust in the exhaust system

6. Seatbelts

All seat belts installed are checked for type, condition, operation, and security
Must be suitable for the vehicle
Properly adjusted and fasten securely

7. Seats

Front seats are secure and adjustable
All seats are safely secured to the floor
Seat backs are lockable in an upright position

8. Doors

Doors all latch securely in closed position
Front doors open from inside and outside the vehicle
Rear doors open from the outside

9. Mirrors

Minimum numbers must be present and secure
Provide adequate views to the rear and sides
Glass is in good condition without cracks

10. Load security

Boot or tailgate can be secured in the closed position
Any cargo is stowed securely
No dangerous items causing potential hazards

11. Brakes

Performance must meet the required effectiveness
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) warnings must work correctly
Properly balanced braking responses from wheels

12. Tyres and wheels

Correct size and type for the vehicle
No cuts or bulges on the tyres
At least the minimum legal tread depth (1.6mm)

13. Registration plates

Must be secure, legible, and correctly formatted
Visible from a distance
Correct colour with reflective background

14. Lights

All required lights are operational
Correct colour and aim for headlights
No broken lenses or improper modifications

15. Bonnet

Latches securely in the closed position
Hinges are firm and free from excessive wear
No obstructions to locking mechanisms

16. Wipers and washers

Must effectively clear the windshield
Blades are in good condition without tears
Washer provides adequate fluid spray

17. Windscreen

Must be clear and free from obstructions to the driver’s view
No chips or cracks in the driver’s line of sight
Condition of the windscreen contributes to vehicle safety

18. Horn

Must be loud enough to be heard by other road users
Proper functioning and correct type for the vehicle
Easily accessible from the driver’s position

19. Steering and suspension

Should be of the correct type and condition
No excessive play or leaking shock absorbers
Secure mountings with no missing components

20. Vehicle identification number (VIN)

Must be present on vehicles first used on or after August 1, 1980
Securely attached and legible
Matches the vehicle's registration documents

21. Electrical

No exposed wires or poorly repaired electrics
Battery securely fitted and terminals protected
All switches and features function as intended

22. Speedometer

Must be fitted, operable, and accurate
Illumination should be functional for clear visibility
Free from damage that could impede the driver’s ability to gauge speed

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Book a trusted MOT garage near you

While garages can only charge a maximum of £54.85 for a car MOT or £29.65 for a standard motorcycle MOT, repairs and maintenance are where garages make their money. Since you can't leave the MOT centre after a failed test (unless your current MOT certificate is still valid), you need to pick your testing garage carefully or risk potentially massive repair costs from a dodgy service.

The ability to view highlighted garages that participate in our system gives you the power to quickly locate high-performing and reliable service providers. You can further narrow your results by customer ratings, distance, and costs.

Our personalised video quotes make it easy to understand MOT service requirements, saving you time on explanations and discussions on the day of the appointment. Plus, they guarantee 100% transparency around labour and repair costs should you wind up needing repairs for your vehicle.

And remember, there are no affiliates paying us for higher rankings. You can always be sure you're getting honest and unbiased recommendations based on the quality and trustworthiness of the garage's work.

How it works

Simply enter your vehicle registration number and postcode, and our system will instantly compare local deals, plus a detailed cost breakdown to avoid last-minute billing surprises. Once you make an informed decision, you can schedule your MOT. From there, you'll choose our free pick-up service or drive to the centre yourself. After the MOT, you'll make your payment directly at the garage.

Our AI technology compares 100's of garages in your area to match you with the best garage based on your vehicle make, model, age and garage rating.

Find an MOT garage for your car make and mode

With 45+ car manufacturers supported, finding an authorised MOT garage nearby is a simple.

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I booked an MOT through Garage.co.uk and couldn’t be happier. The platform was easy to use, and I quickly found a well-reviewed garage nearby. The service was prompt and professional, and the staff were very courteous. The detailed MOT report they provided was incredibly useful. I highly recommend Garage.co.uk for all your car service needs.

⏤ Rachel Adams

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Great Experience

Using Garage.co.uk to book my car service was a great experience. The website is intuitive, and I could compare several garages before making a decision. The garage I chose was excellent, providing efficient and thorough service. The staff were friendly and helpful, making the entire process stress-free. I will definitely use Garage.co.uk again.

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Efficient and Reliable

Garage.co.uk made it simple to book a service for my car. I compared several local garages and selected one with excellent reviews. The service was efficient and reliable, and the garage staff were very professional. They provided a detailed report of the service, which was very helpful. I’m very happy with the experience and will use Garage.co.uk again.

⏤ Oliver Smith

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Top-Notch Service

⏤ Rachel Adams

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Great Experience

⏤ Thomas Brown

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Efficient and Reliable

⏤ Oliver Smith

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Rated 4.7/5 from 186 reviews

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FAQs on finding nearby MOT garages

Want to know more? These are the questions our users ask us most.

When does my MOT expire?

Your MOT expires one year from the date that your current MOT certificate was issued. You can check the expiry date on your current certificate by entering your vehicle registration number into our free MOT checker tool. With our service, you can also set up alerts before your MOT is due.

How early can I get an MOT in the UK?

You can schedule an MOT test for your vehicle up to a month minus one day before the current MOT certificate expires if you want to maintain the same renewal date. Booking early allows you to address any issues in advance, ensuring your vehicle remains roadworthy.

When is it legal to drive without an MOT certificate?

Driving without a valid MOT certificate is illegal except in specific situations. You are allowed to drive without an MOT only if you're en-route to a pre-booked MOT test. To prove this, you will have to show evidence of the appointment.

How can I report a car with no MOT?

To report a vehicle that is being driven without a valid MOT, you should contact your local police. You need to provide details such as the vehicle's registration number, make, model, color, and location. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) do not handle these reports.

Which vehicles are MOT-exempt?

Vehicles that are exempt from MOT tests include tractors, electric-powered goods vehicles registered before 1 March 2015, and vehicles that have been declared off the road (SORN). Historic (classic) vehicles over 40 years old that haven't undergone significant modifications are also exempt. Buses, lorries, and trailers are exempt from a traditional test but have to pass an annual test specific to heavier vehicles.

How often does a car need an MOT in the UK?

In the UK, cars must undergo an MOT test annually, starting three years after the vehicle's initial registration. This requirement is in place to ensure that all vehicles on the road meet safety and environmental standards, which change by the year.

Do all UK cars need an MOT?

Not all cars in the UK need an MOT. New cars are exempt for the first three years after registration. After this period, an annual MOT test is required unless the vehicle qualifies for an exemption, such as being over 40 years old without significant modifications or being a type of vehicle that is inherently exempt, like tractors or certain electric vehicles.

What is the penalty for driving without an MOT in the UK?

Driving without a valid MOT can result in a fine of up to £1,000. If your vehicle is found to have 'dangerous' defects, the fine can increase to £2,500, and you might also face a driving ban and receive penalty points on your license. It's illegal to drive without an MOT except when driving to a pre-booked MOT test.

What causes you to fail an MOT test?

Common reasons for failing an MOT test include issues with lights and signaling, tyre condition and pressure, and problems with mirrors, wipers, and the windshield. Other frequent faults include brakes, suspension, and emissions failures. Ensuring these components are in good condition before the test can help avoid failure.

What are the benefits of MOT testing?

The primary benefits of MOT testing are enhancing road safety and vehicle reliability by ensuring all registered vehicles meet minimum safety standards. It helps identify defects that may require attention to prevent future, more costly repairs. Regular MOT testing also ensures that vehicles comply with emission standards, contributing to environmental protection.

How long will my MOT test take?

An MOT test typically takes between 45 and 60 minutes to complete. This duration can vary depending on the type of vehicle, its condition, and the specific testing center's efficiency. If issues are found that require further inspection or repairs, additional time may be necessary.

How do I get an MOT certificate in the UK?

To get an MOT certificate in the UK, you need to book an appointment at an authorised MOT test centre. Once your vehicle passes the MOT test, the test centre will record your result in the MOT database and provide you with a printed MOT certificate. If the vehicle fails, you'll receive a ‘refusal of an MOT test certificate’ detailing the issues that need to be addressed.

Do you have to pay again if you fail your MOT?

If your vehicle fails the MOT test, you generally need to pay for any necessary repairs and a retest. Depending on the repairs needed, you might qualify for a partial retest, which could be free if done within 10 working days, assuming you leave your vehicle at the test centre for repair. If only minor issues were found, a partial retest might also be done for a reduced fee or free of charge within a specific timeframe.

Is there a grace period for MOT certificate renewal?

There is no grace period for an MOT renewal in the UK. Once your MOT expires, it becomes illegal to drive your vehicle unless you are going to a pre-booked MOT test. You should ensure your vehicle is tested before the certificate expires to avoid fines and invalidating your insurance.

Can you take your car to another garage if you fail your MOT?

Yes, if your car fails its MOT, you can take it to another garage for repairs. However, this is only allowed if your current MOT certificate is still valid, as you're not allowed to drive a vehicle (including from the testing centre to a second repair garage) without a valid MOT.

What happens if my car fails its MOT before its expiry date?

If your car fails its MOT test before the existing certificate expires and the tester doesn't find any dangerous defects, you can drive it until the old certificate expires. If the failure includes dangerous defects, then the vehicle must not be driven until these are fixed, as it would be illegal and unsafe.

In any case, we strongly recommend getting the defects fixed as soon as possible because you will still have to pass the MOT before the expiry date in less than one month.