What to Take to an MOT Test

In most cases, you shouldn’t need to bring any paperwork with you to the approved MOT test centre. MOT testers can usually access your vehicle’s records through the DVSA online system. This will tell them everything they need to know about your car’s MOT test and tax history.

That said, it’s never a bad idea to be prepared, particularly if your car’s history contains any irregularities. 
Here are the documents you might be asked for:

• V5C logbook (vehicle registration document): This isn’t usually needed, but it can help if there’s a problem with your registration details.
• Insurance certificate: Only necessary in Northern Ireland, where proof of a valid insurance policy is still required by law.
• MOT exemption form (V112): If your vehicle is legally exempt from needing an MOT test, you’ll need to bring this form.
• Proof of recent repairs or a retest notice: If your car recently failed its MOT test and you're coming in for a retest, bring any paperwork from the previous visit. This is especially important if you had repairs carried out, so make sure to bring evidence of repairs or vehicle servicing if applicable.
• Booking reference: This isn't essential for a pre-arranged MOT test, but it can speed things up if there’s any confusion with your scheduled appointment.
• Photo ID: Rarely needed, but taking a photo ID, such as a valid driving licence or passport, can be useful, particularly if you're getting an unfamiliar or classic vehicle tested.

For most standard tests, that’s the lot. However, there are times when bringing extra documentation is not just helpful — it’s essential.

There are a few exceptional situations where you’ll need to go beyond the basics. These don’t affect most drivers, but if any of the below apply to you, carrying certain paperwork to the test centre can save you stress.

Your vehicle is not registered in the UK

If your car is an import or hasn’t yet been registered on the DVLA system, you may need to bring:

• Your foreign registration documents
• Proof of customs clearance or NOVA registration
• The equivalent of an MOT certificate from the vehicle’s country of origin

It’s your vehicle’s first MOT

If your car doesn’t have a digital MOT test history or a current MOT certificate, you’ll need to have your V5C logbook on hand. You also might need proof of purchase, such as a receipt or bill of sale, to help verify the vehicle’s identity.

You have recently changed the plates of your vehicle

If you’ve recently bought private or personalised plates for your car, the DVSA record might not include your new vehicle registration number. So, to help pull up your vehicle’s history in the digital records, bring along:

• Your updated V5C logbook
• Proof of the plate transfer from the DVLA

A previous MOT certificate may also help.

Your vehicle’s MOT history is missing or incorrect

Occasional discrepancies may occur. If there are gaps or mistakes in your online MOT history, bring along any physical records you have to help clarify things. Old MOT test certificates and MOT test centre receipts, as well as your V5C logbook, are particularly helpful for this.

You have a classic (or otherwise exempt) vehicle

If you’ve got a classic car registered as a VHI (Vehicle of Historical Interest), it may not need to have an MOT test. However, many people still get MOT tests for their VHI for peace of mind. In such cases, it’s a good idea to take:

• A completed V112 form
• Possibly proof of the car’s age and evidence that it hasn’t undergone the kind of ‘substantial modification’ that would disqualify it from VHI status
• A previous MOT certificate (if available) to help the tester understand the kinds of issues they may be looking for

In most cases, losing your paperwork isn’t a dealbreaker. Your MOT tester should be able to digitally access your MOT certificates and tax status. 

If you don’t have documentation for certain things (private plates or exemption claims, for example), the MOT process might be delayed.

If you’ve lost your V5C logbook, you can request a replacement through the DVLA. Similarly, any missing exemption forms or insurance certificates can usually be reissued by your insurer or downloaded before your MOT inspection.