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  MOT Explained: 

The MOT test is a check to which every vehicle on UK roads must submit, once it is older than three years. The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) requires that owners of vehicles can prove that their cars are in a roadworthy condition by holding an MOT certificate that is valid for one year. However statistics show that many drivers do not carry out MOT tests on a yearly basis, with up to 5 million vehicles not having an up to date MOT certificate. During the recession, drivers are keen to cut costs and at a full price of £54 (almost twice as much as 12 years ago) the MOT test is a significant cost for many drivers.

MOT testing aims to confirm, at the time of testing, that the vehicle meets certain minimum standards for environmental and road safety. To the owner of the vehicle, an MOT test gives some degree of confidence as to the safety and reliability of their vehicle. Insurance companies require a valid MOT certificate to issue vehicle insurance and an MOT certificate is also required when paying vehicle tax. There are over 19,000 garages in the UK authorised by VOSA that can carry out an MOT test. These Vehicle Testing Stations (VTS) can be identified by the display of a blue and white triangle indicating VOSA authorisation.

MOT testing is very comprehensive and includes many criteria. The structure of the vehicle and exterior surfaces are examined for corrosion and damage and for any dangerous contact areas. Lights and mirrors are assessed for condition, operation and security. The bonnet, doors and tailgate is examined for secure latching and positioning. Wipers and washers are crucial for driving in adverse weather and these are assessed for their condition and their effectiveness in providing the driver with a clear view. Tyres and wheels are examined for their condition, their size and their tread depth although spare wheels are not inspected.

A vehicles` fuel and exhaust system are evaluated for secure fastening, leaks and ageing. Exhaust emission requirements can vary from vehicle to vehicle and are also evaluated according to set requirements. Safety factors include the brakes, the steering and suspension as well as the horn. Brakes are tested for efficiency and the steering, suspension and horn is checked for satisfactory operation. Regulations regarding vehicle identification cover the registration plates and the vehicle identification number and these are checked with every MOT assessment.

There are legal and practical consequences when driving without a valid MOT certificate. It is an offence under Section 47(1) of the Road Traffic Act 1988 and is punishable by a maximum fine of £1000, although conviction does not result in penalty points. Police officers are entitled to stop and ask for a valid MOT certificate and are increasingly doing so, with ever more police patrol vehicles being fitted with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems which cross-check number plates against a central database to highlight any for which there is no valid MOT in place.

If the car is operated without a valid MOT certificate it automatically invalidates the insurance policy which leaves the owner of the car exposed and at future risk of paying increased insurance premiums. It is important to note, however, that an MOT does not guarantee that the vehicle will be roadworthy for the following twelve months so the owner is still responsible for ensuring the continuous roadworthiness of their vehicle.

MOT tests are not the only government-required actions for the owners of vehicles. Owners of vehicles are also required by law to ensure the vehicle is under the protection of a valid policy and that a valid Vehicle License (tax) disc is purchased and displayed.