How to Check Your MOT Expiry Date – and Why So Many Are Due This Quarter 🚗📅
Ever found yourself scrambling to book an MOT at the last minute, only to find every garage nearby fully booked? You’re not alone! There’s a good reason why so many MOTs fall due at the same time each year — and this quarter is one of the busiest.
Here’s why it happens, how you can easily check your MOT expiry date, and what to do if yours is coming up soon.
Why MOT Garages Are Extra Busy Right Now 🔧
Back in 2020, the government introduced a three-month MOT extension during the COVID lockdowns. That meant thousands of MOTs were pushed back — and ever since, a huge wave of renewals now falls between October and December.
Fast forward to today, and this backlog still affects garages across the UK. So, if your MOT is due soon, you’re competing with a lot of other local drivers trying to book their slots too.
At AZ Autos, we see this pattern every year — and our advice is simple: book your MOT early to avoid the rush!
How to Check When Your MOT Is Due 🕵️♂️
Not sure when your MOT expires? It’s super easy to find out.
You can check instantly using the official GOV.UK MOT status checker:
👉 https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-status
All you need is your vehicle registration number, and you’ll see:
✅ Your MOT expiry date
✅ Your vehicle’s MOT history
✅ The make and model of your car
Alternatively, if you’d rather not check yourself, we’re happy to help — just mention it when you book your MOT online and we’ll confirm your expiry date for you.
What Happens If You Miss Your MOT 😬
Driving without a valid MOT certificate is illegal (unless you’re driving directly to a pre-booked test).
If you’re caught, you could face:
⚠️ A fine of up to £1,000
⚠️ Invalidated insurance
⚠️ Possible penalty points
We often get frantic calls from drivers who’ve just realised their MOT expired days ago — and by that point, finding a same-day slot can be tricky during busy periods. So, don’t wait until the last minute!
Top Tip: Combine Your MOT and Service for Extra Convenience 🔧🚙
Why make two trips when you can do everything at once? At AZ Autos, you can book your MOT and Service together — saving time and helping keep your car in top condition.
If anything comes up during the MOT, our experienced team can handle repairs quickly and efficiently, getting you safely back on the road.
And for peace of mind, we keep our prices transparent and competitive.
Why Book with AZ Autos 🧰
We’re a trusted local garage serving Letchworth, Hitchin, Baldock, and Stevenage, offering honest advice, great service, and reliable workmanship.
✅ DVSA-approved MOT testing
✅ Free MOT re-test within 10 working days
✅ Friendly, qualified technicians
✅ Early morning and convenient appointment slots
Our customers love that we make MOTs simple — no jargon, no surprises, just quality service.
Don’t Get Caught in the MOT Rush – Book Today 📆
If your MOT is due soon, now’s the time to get ahead.
Don’t wait until it’s too late — check your MOT expiry date today and keep your car road-legal, safe, and running smoothly.