Mandatory roadworthiness test: deadlines and penalties

The mandatory roadworthiness test (MOT / contrôle technique) is a legal requirement for all passenger cars. Here are the deadlines, re-test rules and penalties for non-compliance.

Frequency

In the UK, the first MOT is required for vehicles over 3 years old (from the date of first registration). Thereafter, the test must be renewed every year. In other European countries, the first test may be at 4 years and then every 2 years (or every year for older vehicles). The deadline is shown on the last test certificate or report. Having the test before the deadline avoids bad surprises (faults to fix, re-test).

Re-test

If the vehicle has faults (major or dangerous), the tester issues a failure certificate: you have a deadline (often 2 weeks to 2 months depending on country) to have the faults corrected and retake the test. Only the faults listed on the certificate need to be fixed to obtain a pass. After the deadline, you must take a full test again (not just a re-test).

Penalties

Driving without a valid roadworthiness test (or without having completed the re-test within the deadline) is an offence: fixed penalty (e.g. £1,000 and driving ban in the UK; fines vary by country), vehicle may be immobilised, and in the event of an accident, impact on insurance. The certificate of the last test must be kept with the vehicle documents.

Order of magnitude for costs

The cost of the test varies by country and test centre: in the UK, around £35–£55 for a full MOT; in France, around €50–€80. The re-test (check of failed items only) is usually cheaper (around €30–€50 or equivalent). Repairs needed to pass (brakes, lights, exhaust, etc.) are in addition to the test cost. My Auto Check-up helps you anticipate costs by identifying possible symptoms or faults before your test.