How much does an MOT cost, and when is a retest free?
Published 04 Nov 2026 by Carwooshh
Last reviewed: 4 November 2026
An MOT is a yearly roadworthiness check for most vehicles over three years old in Great Britain (four in Northern Ireland). Prices are capped by law, so it pays to know the rules before you book.
What you should pay
- At the time of writing, the legal maximum for a standard car (Class 4) MOT is £54.85 — check GOV.UK for the current figure, and VAT is not added on top.
- Garages can charge less than the cap but never more. Many independents and chains run offers below the maximum, so compare a few local MOT centres before booking.
If your car fails
- Leave it at the test centre to be repaired and retested within 10 working days: only a partial retest is needed, and no fee can be charged for it.
- Take it away for repairs and bring it back to the same centre within 10 working days: you may be charged a partial retest fee.
- Go to a different centre, or return after 10 working days: expect to pay for a full new test.
Tips when booking
- Ask whether the price includes a free retest and whether the garage can do repairs on site.
- Check your due date and MOT history for free on GOV.UK using your registration.
- Book early — you can get an MOT up to a month (minus a day) before it runs out and keep the same renewal date.
FAQ
- What is the maximum price for a car MOT?
- At the time of writing, £54.85 for a Class 4 car — check GOV.UK for the current figure. Garages may charge less but not more.
- Is VAT added to an MOT?
- No. The MOT test fee is not subject to VAT.
- Is an MOT retest free?
- It is if you leave the vehicle at the test centre for repair and it is retested within 10 working days.
- When does a new car need its first MOT?
- By its third anniversary of first registration in Great Britain, or its fourth in Northern Ireland.