The MOT Certificate

During 2005 and 2006, the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) introduced a new computerised system for MOTs. All testing stations now record MOT results on a secure central database that also holds vehicle information and details of authorised examiners and testers.

The new computerised system was introduced for a number of reasons:

1. To reduce theft and fraud associated with MOT certificates, by:
   • reducing dependence on paper certificates
   • tighter control of certificates
   • closer monitoring
2. To improve testing standards by:
   • monitoring test standards more closely
   • providing accurate, up-to-date information for the MOT Testing Stations
3. To improve administration by:
   • enhancing the way records are kept
   • automatically collecting and updating information and by passing information to and from garages electronically
4. To improve consumer protection and confidence in the MOT test by:
   • making it easier to detect fraud
   • ensuring more consistent standards
   • enabling the general public to check if a vehicle passed or failed an MOT

The new A4 sized MOT certificate (VT20) acts as your receipt for the MOT test, and shows the information that is held on the central database. It also includes information about any additional work that has been recommended, along with a peel off windscreen sticker to remind you of the MOT renewal date.

However, unlike the old style A5 certificates, the new document no longer acts as official proof of an MOT - only the central database record can prove a vehicle has a valid MOT. Motorists may now check the MOT status of any vehicle that they own, or are considering buying, by contacting the MOT Status Line (see Useful Resources for contact details). You will need the registration mark of the vehicle and either the document reference number from the V5C registration certificate or the test number from the new style MOT test certificate. You will be able to obtain key information about the vehicle, including the make, model, colour, recorded mileage, MOT status and expiry date of the valid MOT. You will also be able to check the MOT history of the vehicle, with full details of all the tests undertaken on the vehicle since the system was computerised.