Important information regarding the MOT test Once an automobile is three years old (four years in Northern Ireland), it must be inspected annually to ensure it fulfills road safety and environmental regulations. This Ministry of Transport test is usually referred to as a 'MOT.' MOT testing is performed at authorized test centers located around the country, all of which exhibit an official blue sign with three white triangles. An MOT entails dozens of examinations on your vehicle, ranging from the brakes and fuel system to the lights, mirrors, seatbelts, windshield wipers, and exhaust system. An MOT can also be obtained through a local municipal test center. Normally, these test centers do not do repairs in addition to MOTs. This allows them to be objective while assessing your vehicle because they have no business interest in identifying flaws. Enquire now to book a cheap MOT Test online. How long does a MOT normally take? An MOT test takes between 45 and 60 minutes on average, but there are a few more factors to consider. First, if your car fails the test and requires repairs, the process will be extended. Unless your old MOT certificate is still valid or you're taking the car to have the defects corrected, a test facility is not authorized to let you drive away a car that has failed a MOT until the problems are fixed. Second, while the test may take an hour or less, even if no repairs are required, this does not guarantee your car will only be at the garage for 60 minutes. You may be required to drop off your car first thing in the morning and pick it up when it is ready. This implies you should plan on being without your car for the day. What is the cost of a MOT? The maximum amount that approved test facilities can charge for a MOT is regulated by the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency. Find out how to save money on your next MOT by searching for "cheap MOT" or "MOT discount" online. An MOT may also be included in the cost of a comprehensive auto service. While it is a good idea to maintain your car on a regular basis, a service, especially if it includes a MOT, is likely to be more expensive than a MOT on its own.