Originally called the Ministry of Transportation test, an MOT is a thorough annual examination of a vehicle that is three years old or more. The MOT tests both the safety of your vehicle and the level of emissions in the exhaust.
The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) is responsible for “licensing” both the MOT test station and the MOT tester.
It is your responsibility to ensure that your vehicle is examined every 12 months. Without an MOT certificate, you will be unable to renew your road tax and your car may not be insured. Having a current MOT certificate is also a legal requirement in the UK.