Every year many vehicles fail their MOT because something minor or major is not up to standard. The good news is that there are rules in place so motorists do not always have to pay full price again. Knowing how MOT retests work can save you time, money and hassle. The following explains the key points of free or reduced cost MOT retests under UK regulations.
What is an MOT retest
When a vehicle fails its MOT, the tester issues a “refusal of MOT test certificate” (VT30). This lists the defects categorised as dangerous, major or minor. To get back on the road legally, you must fix those issues and undergo a retest. A retest checks only the failed items, not everything unless certain conditions require a full MOT retest.
When you can get a free retest
There are specific situations where you will not have to pay extra for a retest:
- If you leave your vehicle at the MOT test centre for repair and it is retested there within 10 working days of the original failure, the retest is free.
- If you take your vehicle away for repairs, then return it to the same test centre by the end of the next working day for certain specified defects, you also qualify for a free partial retest.
These rules are set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and apply across MOT test centres in England, Scotland and Wales.
Eligible defects for next day free retest
Only certain types of failures qualify under the “return next working day” free retest rule. These are typically faults that are fairly straightforward to fix and do not require full dismantling or complex diagnostics. Examples include:
- Lamps (excluding headlamp aim)
- Mirrors, registration plates, rear reflectors
- Horn, fuel filler cap
- Windscreen glass, wipers, washers
- Doors, boot lid, bonnet, tailgate, tailboard, sharp edges or projections
- Seatbelts (but not anchorages), seats
- Wheels and tyres (excluding certain vehicle classes)
- Electrical wiring
If the failure is in one of those items and you can return by the next working day to the same test centre, you do not pay again.
Partial retest within 10 working days and reduced fees
If you cannot meet the next day deadline but you return within 10 working days to the same test centre, whether you had repairs done elsewhere or on site, you can still have a partial retest. That means only the failed items are rechecked.
- If the vehicle was left at the test centre for repairs, the partial retest is free.
- If the vehicle was taken away and returned within 10 working days, a partial retest fee may be charged. This fee is lower than the full MOT cost.
When you will need a full MOT retest and full fee
You will likely be required to pay the full MOT fee and undergo a complete MOT test in the following cases:
- You return after more than 10 working days from the original failure.
- You take your vehicle to a different test centre for the retest, even if only failed items are fixed.
Driving a vehicle that has failed
Failing an MOT does not always mean you have to stop driving immediately, but there are strict rules:
- If defects are categorised as dangerous, you must not drive the vehicle until they are repaired.
- If your MOT is still valid and only major defects are listed (not dangerous), you may drive legally, but the vehicle must remain roadworthy.
- If the MOT certificate has expired, you may only drive to a garage for repairs or to a pre booked MOT appointment.
What documentation do you need
When your vehicle fails, you receive the VT30 form. This is crucial for a retest because:
- It shows exactly which items have failed, so the tester knows what to re check.
- It is needed both for free or partial retests and when paying a reduced fee.
Tips to avoid unnecessary costs
- Have obvious items checked before the MOT, such as lamps, windscreen, wipers, mirrors and tyres.
- If possible, leave the vehicle at the test centre for repairs to benefit from the no fee 10 day rule.
- If not, be certain you can return the next working day to meet the free minor defect retest conditions.
- Always choose the same test centre that conducted the original MOT.