MOT Birmingham for MOT tests on all makes and models throughout Birmingham | M.O.T. Birmingham
MOT Birmingham Frequently Asked Questions
We have attempted to answer most of the questions that you may have with regards to your MOT test at MOT Birmingham and, hopefully, you will find the answer you’re looking for here. If not, please give MOT Birmingham a call on 0121 706 2111 and we will do our very best to help you.
What is an MOT?
First and foremost, the MOT scheme is a vehicle road safety measure designed to ensure, wherever possible, that any car, motorcycle or light goods vehicle more than 3 years old:
• is correctly maintained and safe to be driven on the road
• is examined at least once a year at an authorised MOT test station to make sure that they are fully compliant with all important requirements of the law governing such vehicles
M.O.T. Stands for Ministry Of Transport. The test certificate issued by MOT Birmingham relates only to the condition of the features and areas that must be tested by law at the time of the test and is not considered evidence of their condition at any other time; it should not be accepted as evidence of the general mechanical condition of the vehicle.
Can I watch an MOT vehicle inspection at MOT Birmingham?
Yes, MOT Birmingham provides an MOT viewing area where our customers can sit and watch whilst the test is carried out on their vehicle. At MOT Birmingham, we must stress that it is important that you do not cause distraction or interference to the test engineer as their concentration will, rightly, be focused on the vehicle.
Can I drive my vehicle on a public highway if it fails a pre-test?
You may drive to a pre-arranged MOT Birmingham test appointment or to our garage for repairs required for the test. Cars and motorcycles MUST normally pass an MOT test three years from the date of the first registration and every year after that. You MUST NOT drive a vehicle without a currently valid MOT certificate, when it should have one. Driving a vehicle without a valid MOT certificate will invalidate your insurance and will have serious consequences should you be stopped by the Police. If in doubt as to whether you can drive your vehicle to MOT Birmingham, call us on 0121 706 2111 where a member of the MOT Birmingham team will be happy to advise you.
How long do I have after failing an MOT before taking the second test?
There isn’t a strict time limit before you book your vehicle in with MOT Birmingham for a retest; it is at the discretion of the individual. If your car does not have a currently valid MOT Certificate, it must not be used on the road except when travelling to a prearranged MOT test or to MOT Birmingham for repairs necessary before an MOT test can be carried out.
How much does an MOT test cost?
An MOT test at MOT Birmingham currently costs £42.99 for a standard motor car. Please contact a member of the MOT Birmingham team for a price on other types of vehicle.
Does MOT Birmingham give a free re-test?
At MOT Birmingham, we will always advise our customers beforehand if there will be any work required on the vehicle in order for it to pass an MOT test. Such work is usually minor and can be explained via a phone call and carried out before the vehicle is tested, thus removing the requirement for a re-test.
When is my car eligible for its first MOT?
When it is three years old. Your DVLA documentation will indicate the date when your vehicle was first officially registered for use on the road.
How long does an MOT test take?
Approximately 45 minutes, but this varies dependant upon the condition of the vehicle when presented for testing.
Do I need to make an appointment at MOT Birmingham for my car to be tested?
Usually, we would recommend that you check with us via a phone call or via our website online form but we always welcome customers who visit us to find out if they can make a short notice booking at MOT Birmingham.
Will I be notified by the VIA when my MOT test date is due?
The MOT certificate of your vehicle is your responsibility and you must ensure that an MOT test is carried out when necessary. Once a customer of MOT Birmingham, we will send you a reminder when your next MOT test is due.
My MOT test is due next month on my vehicle.Can I take it for an MOT test before that date?
Yes, but the MOT certificate is only valid for 12 months from the date of the test.
Do I need to stay with my vehicle?
No. A member of the team at MOT Birmingham will be more than happy to pick up your vehicle from your home or place of work and return it to you once the test is complete and the vehicle has passed it’s MOT test.
I have lost my MOT certificate, can I get a duplicate copy?
Yes - The easiest way is to come back to us at MOT Birmingham, where the vehicle was tested, tell us the approximate date of the test and we will be able to give you a duplicate certificate. The fee is £10.00 to cover our administration costs.
If you are unable to return to us at MOT Birmingham (i.e. You have just bought the car and you live too far away), the Vehicle Inspectorate (0845 600 5977) may be able to help you.
