MOT Question

[jd_1984]

Mine has run out, the expiry date was 23/11/10.
I have been driving around blissfully unaware, but checked documents today.

Question is, I have it booked in for Monday but desperately need to drive on Sunday (I can use public transport all other days).
If I can demonstrate that the car is booked in for the very next day, would I get away with it if questioned by police?
Is it a discretion call or mandatory points/fine?

[Ankou]

its illegal and you could face a hefty fine/insurance issues.

the only time you can drive with a pre-booked mot as you state, is to get to the mot testing station.

[Count-A-Strong]

Personally, I wouldn't risk it. I think a policeman in a good mood (?) may let you off if you're on your way to the MOT but actually having it booked and then going on a separate journey is to my thinking doubly bad, as you know you're driving without one. It's also not a case of being stopped but having an accident and then being found to have been driving in the full knowledge that you didn't have one.

[jd_1984]

Count - Good argument for leaving car on the drive Sunday, thanks.
The MOT station is 1.5 miles from the house so will take the risk on Monday.

Need a Plan B for Sunday!

[R1Geezer]

You can only drive too or from a booked MOT test so no.

In reality it wont be an issue unless you get stopped by jobsworth plod of the week. However it will show as not MOT'd if read by one of plods auto reader cars. There is also the insurance risk, ie you'll still be insured but they'll use the fact that you have no MOT as a stick to beat you with in the event of a claim.

Depends how far and how long on the road I guess.

[jd_1984]

R1 - 130 mile round trip Sunday, not going to risk it

[New Judge]

If you are caught it is a fixed penalty of £30 and no points.

[jd_1984]

I think the fine alone with no points would be an incentive to take the chance for some people.. But as pointed out earlier it is the insurance risk in the event of accident.
I always think it would be sods law to have my first motor incident when my papaers are not in order! Thanks, jd..

[ABerrant]

The FPN was increased to £60 a few years ago however there is always the option to prosecute in court where the maximum allowed fine is £1000.

[ABerrant]

The MOT still exists because it is the most basic of health checks for vehicles which in many cases are not adequately maintained by the registered keepers. Without the MOT the level of car roadworthiness in the UK would plummet.

[Hopkirk]

It's the only way some people find that their brake lights are faulty.

[flip_flop]

Doesn't make a jot of difference as far as the insurance is concerned.

[Andyvon]

I wouldn't take the chance jd. Most police cars are fitted with these automatic number plate readers now so you've got a very good chance of being stopped. I also believe the police can impound your car now if it's not legally on the road and possibly even crush it. That would be a sickener! Is it worth it?