On the day of the MOT test

Who can bring the vehicle

Anyone can present the vehicle for the test on the registered keeper's behalf – if you are the registered keeper you do not have to go in person.

Do not present a vehicle for test if you feel unwell or you have any of the Covid-19 symptoms.

When you arrive at the test centre

1. Drive to the test hall and park in the lane shown on your booking confirmation, make sure your vehicle’s engine is at the normal working temperature for the test
2. Make sure your vehicle is presented in a hygienic state and free from any unhygienic matter such as used tissues, gloves or wipes
3. There is no set rules for the underside of the vehicle to be washed before a vehicle test but in line with law, the examiner may refuse to conduct the test if the exterior of the vehicle, or any other motor vehicle with it, or any part of or any equipment of the vehicle is so dirty it makes it unreasonably difficult for the inspection to be carried out
4. When presenting the vehicle for test, you should come alone - do not bring pets, children or anyone else with you
5. You will have to exit the vehicle before it enters the test hall and our staff will take the vehicle through the full test
6. Shelter is available in the reception area - however you may have to wait outside to try to maintain social distancing, so come prepared for weather conditions
7. If you are unable to exit the vehicle, call Driver & Vehicle Agency - vehicle test booking, so that other arrangements can be made
8. Bring your own sanitiser and/ or wipes to clean and sanitise all internal surfaces after the test

If you are late for your appointment

It is strongly recommended that you arrive at least 10 minutes before your appointment time. If you arrive late, the test will not take place and you may lose your fee and have to make another appointment.

Vehicle damaged during the test

If your vehicle is damaged during the test, you  should  report it as possible to the centre manager who will inspect the damage. If the vehicle has already left the premises the centre manager will arrange a time for you to return with the vehicle for inspection.

You will be given a claim form which you should then send to the centre manager along with three quotes showing the cost of repairing the damage.

The circumstances in which you can claim compensation are set out in procedures below:

• Complain or claim compensation from DVA

Adverse weather

Vehicle testing is not normally affected by adverse weather conditions. In exceptional circumstances, where you are unable to go to the test due to adverse weather, you should email the online booking enquiries team at the link below before your scheduled appointment. Your test will then be rescheduled at no additional cost.

• Online booking enquiries customer support team
• Driving and vehicle test centres 

If you do not go to your test appointment

At present, if you fail to go to your appointment, DVA’s policy is that you forfeit the payment (already made) and have to rebook and pay again.

You can choose  to make a Fail to Appear (FTA) appeal. A FTA appeal asks the DVA to consider your explanation for failing to go for a vehicle or driving test.

The appeal should be made to DVA's customer services team at: 

• Driver & Vehicle Agency - customer services