MOT Testing Explained
The purpose of the MOT test is to confirm that a vehicle, at the time of the MOT testing, is of an acceptable standard as required by UK law. Although the MOT certificate issued is valid for 12 months this does not mean that the vehicle will continue to be of a roadworthy standard for the duration of those 12 months. The MOT test does not take the clutch, gearbox or engine condition into consideration when testing for roadworthiness.
With approximately 19,000 MOT testing stations across the UK, finding one locally should not be difficult. An MOT testing station can be spotted by the distinctive blue triangles sign. There is a maximum fee for an MOT to be carried out and this must be clearly displayed inside every testing station. However operators may charge less than the price displayed but they cannot charge more.
The MOT test is carried out in a testing bay area. The MOT tester, who is VOSA-approved and trained, uses only equipment that meets the national standards for MOT tests. The testing procedures are laid out in an easy to read guide that is available at every testing station.