MOT results explained
Since 20 May 2018, every problem found at an MOT is put into one of four categories. Dangerous and major mean a fail. Minor and advisory can appear on a pass.
Dangerous
Fail
A direct and immediate risk to road safety, or a serious impact on the environment. Don't drive the vehicle until it's been repaired.
Major
Fail
It may affect the vehicle's safety, put other road users at risk or affect the environment. Repair it immediately.
Minor
Pass
No significant effect on the safety of the vehicle or on the environment. Repair it as soon as possible.
Advisory
Pass
It could become more serious in the future. Monitor it, and repair it if necessary.
Pass
Pass
It meets the minimum legal standard. Make sure it continues to.
After a fail
- Your vehicle fails if the result lists any dangerous or major problems.GOV.UK
- You can only take it away if your current MOT is still valid and no dangerous problems were listed. It must still meet the minimum standards of roadworthiness.GOV.UK
- Driving a vehicle that failed for a dangerous problem can mean a fine of up to £2,500, a driving ban and 3 penalty points.GOV.UK
- Retests can be free if you leave the vehicle for repair, or bring it back the next working day for certain items. Retest rules and feesGOV.UK
Common questions
Can I drive my car if it failed its MOT?
Only if your current MOT is still valid and no dangerous problems were listed. If a dangerous problem was listed, it must be repaired before you drive it. The vehicle must always meet the minimum standards of roadworthiness.
What's the penalty for driving with a dangerous defect?
A fine of up to £2,500, a driving ban and 3 penalty points.
Does an advisory mean my car failed?
No. Advisories and minor defects can appear on a pass. They're things to keep an eye on or fix soon.
Why do older MOTs just say fail?
The dangerous, major and minor categories started on 20 May 2018. Tests before then list failure items and advisories.
Check a vehicle's results
Mileage check
Every MOT reading on a chart, and a warning if it ever went down.
When is my MOT due?
Your due date, the earliest day to test, and a calendar reminder.
How much is an MOT?
The official maximum fees in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
What the MOT checks
The nine areas of the test, from brakes to emissions.
MOT test centres
Every approved test centre in Great Britain, by postcode and town.
MOTs in Northern Ireland
Test centres, booking, changing a test and fees.
Sources
- GOV.UK: MOT changes, 20 May 2018 (defect categories)
- GOV.UK: Getting an MOT, MOT test result
- GOV.UK: Getting an MOT, retests
Checked 14 October 2026. Spotted something out of date? Email hello@motmileage.co.uk.