How to prepare for your MOT: a 10-minute checklist
Updated September 2026
Plenty of MOT failures come from simple faults you can spot at home. Spend ten minutes on this list the day before.
The checklist
- Every bulb works, including brake lights, fog light and number plate lamp
- Tyres have at least 1.6mm of tread and no cuts or bulges
- Tyre pressures are correct (check the sticker in the door frame)
- Wiper blades aren't split and screenwash is topped up
- No new windscreen chips in front of the driver
- Horn works
- Seatbelts pull out, lock and retract
- Number plates are clean, undamaged and legal
- No warning lights stay on after starting
- Remove clutter from the boot and seats so the tester can reach seatbelts
What to bring
- Your keys
- The locking wheel nut key, if fitted
- Enough fuel and oil for the emissions test
See what your car is likely to need
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Official rules: GOV.UK: Getting an MOT.