How Long Does an MOT Take? | Motor Guide

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How Long Does an MOT Take? UK Motor Guide

A standard MOT test takes around 45 to 60 minutes to complete. This assumes your car doesn’t need any repairs or additional work. It’s a fairly quick process, but you may be asked to leave your vehicle for a few hours if the garage is busy or if you’re combining the MOT with a service.

If your car fails the MOT and needs repairs to pass, this will obviously take longer — anywhere from a couple of hours to a few days depending on parts, labour, and workshop availability.


What’s Checked During an MOT?

The MOT test checks the roadworthiness, safety, and environmental standards of your vehicle. The tester will inspect:

  • Brakes

  • Tyres and wheels

  • Lights and indicators

  • Suspension and steering

  • Exhaust and emissions

  • Windscreen, wipers, and washers

  • Seatbelts and seats

  • Bodywork (for rust or sharp edges)

  • Horn, mirrors, number plates

It’s not a mechanical health check — it won’t tell you if your clutch is worn or your engine is misfiring — that’s for a service, not an MOT.


How to Speed Things Up

  • Book early – especially in March and September when new registrations cause a spike in MOT bookings.

  • Arrive on time – a missed slot can delay your car for hours.

  • Bring relevant documents, especially if your vehicle needs retesting or has any known issues.

  • Keep your car clean – believe it or not, a filthy car can lead to a refused MOT if the tester can’t access key parts like seatbelts or door latches.


Can I Wait While My MOT Is Done?

Yes, many garages have waiting areas, and you’re welcome to stay during the test. Just bear in mind it can be a bit of a wait if something crops up, so bring a book or your phone charger just in case.


What If My Car Fails?

If your car fails the MOT, you’ll get a refusal certificate (VT30) and a list of reasons why. Some failures can be fixed on the spot if they’re minor (bulbs, wipers, etc.). Others may require a return visit, parts, and re-testing.

If you leave the car at the garage for repair and it’s retested within 10 working days, you usually only pay a partial retest fee — or nothing at all, depending on the issue and garage policy.

Final Thought

An MOT usually takes under an hour, but leave yourself a bit of extra time in case your car needs work or the garage is running behind. Booking early, keeping on top of maintenance, and being realistic about wait times will help you get through MOT season without stress.