UK drivers risk huge £1,000 fine as millions admit to missing vital MOT test

Millions of drivers have missed or delayed their last MOT, according to damning new data, as experts call on motorists to make urgent checks.

Fresh research shows that 4.5 million drivers, or 11 per cent of UK driving licence holders, missed or delayed their last MOT test.

Around 1.6 million of these motorists are believed to have continued driving after missing their MOT, despite the massive road safety risks.

Only a quarter (24 per cent) of people who missed their MOT said they believed their vehicle was safe to drive.

National Highways has called on motorists to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before setting off, or they could be slapped with huge fines.

A vehicle which does not have a valid MOT can lead to a driver receiving a £1,000 fine, in addition to expensive repair costs if anything goes wrong.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) states that the later a vehicle is for an MOT, the more defects a vehicle develops, often making it unsafe.

Colin Stevenson, road safety information lead at National Highways, said: "In autumn, vehicle preparation becomes even more important.

"Poor weather, reduced visibility and more challenging road conditions can all place additional demands on both drivers and vehicles.

"Simple checks before setting off, such as inspecting tyres, lights and fluid levels, can help reduce the risk of breakdowns and keep journeys safer.

"Keeping on top of MOTs and routine maintenance can also help drivers identify potential issues before they become bigger problems."

An MOT test needs to be taken on the third anniversary of a vehicle's first registration and on the anniversary of its last MOT after three years.

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Motorists can get an MOT up to a month (minus a day) before it runs out and keep the same renewal date

However, this will not apply if the last MOT was in Northern Ireland and the next test is in Great Britain. The renewal date will be based on the date of the GB MOT test.

National Highways has called on drivers to keep vehicles well maintained to improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary tyre wear.

An estimated 57 per cent of tyres are underinflated by at least four PSI, potentially increasing fuel consumption, noise and tyre abrasion.

Grant Thunder, Head of MOT at the DVSA, said: "An MOT is a legal requirement for most vehicles over three years old and helps ensure they meet minimum safety and environmental standards at the time of testing.

"However, an MOT is not a guarantee that a vehicle will remain roadworthy throughout the year.

"Drivers are responsible for ensuring their vehicle is safe to drive at all times through regular checks and maintenance.

"Our free MOT reminder service makes it even easier for motorists to ensure they get their MOT done on time."