MOT history
Also known as: MOT records, MOT check
MOT history is the record of every annual MOT test a UK vehicle has had since 2005, including pass/fail status, mileage at each test, expiry dates, advisories and recorded defects.
The MOT (Ministry of Transport) test has been mandatory for UK vehicles over three years old since 1960. Since 2005, the DVSA has stored every test result electronically and exposed them through the MOT History API, giving free public access to the full record.
A vehicle's MOT history reveals far more than just current MOT validity. Repeated failures on the same item — e.g. brake pad wear, suspension faults, emissions — point to recurring maintenance issues. Long gaps in testing suggest the vehicle was off the road or stockpiled. Advisory notices (items "close to legal limit") forecast upcoming repair bills.
DealerPricing's free vehicle check returns the full MOT history with all advisories and defects, with no signup required. The paid HPI check additionally cross-references mileage readings to flag any discrepancy across tests.
Related terms
- Mileage discrepancyA mileage discrepancy occurs when a UK vehicle's recorded mileage decreases between MOT tests or other records — the leading indicator that the odometer has been illegally tampered with.
- Vehicle tax statusVehicle tax status is the current DVLA record of whether a UK vehicle has valid Vehicle Excise Duty (VED, commonly "road tax") in place — and if so, when it expires.
- HPI checkAn HPI check is a UK vehicle history report that confirms whether a car is stolen, has outstanding finance, has been written off, has mileage discrepancy, or has had its plate, colour or keeper details changed.