Customer Reviews for Our Motorcycle MOT Check
CarVeto has a 4.8-star rating on Google and Trustpilot, with customers highlighting the convenience, accuracy, and straightforward experience of its motorcycle MOT checks.
Reviewers appreciate how easy it is to check a motorcycle’s MOT history and find the information they need in one place.
Motorcycle buyers find it useful to check a bike’s MOT history before deciding whether to buy it.
Vehicle buyers also value CarVeto for presenting key MOT details, previous test results, and potential issues together in a report format.
Simply brilliant!!...just brilliant!!
Syed Hussain
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I was shocked at how quickly the data from CarVeto was updated! I came across CarVeto's service and coincidently having done just the basic free search initially, the MOT on the vehicle that had been completed an hour ago, was already listed!!
I knew the results of the MOT of the car I was going to buy, even before the seller!!
The data is very clearly presented and just makes you feel like you 'know and understand' the vehicle your about to purchase.
This gave me the confidence in making an informed decision. Just brilliant!!
Satisfied customer
Zoey Jones
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thorough check came through very quickly.
Lucky I did the check as the mileage had been tampered with by nearly 100,000 miles 😡 needless to say we didn’t purchase the vehicle thanks to CarVeto!
Very satisfied customer.
Would definitely recommend!
What Is a Motorcycle MOT Check?
A motorcycle MOT (Ministry of Transport) check is a legally required annual test that assesses whether a motorcycle meets minimum standards for road safety, roadworthiness, and exhaust emissions.
An MOT test must be carried out at a DVSA-approved MOT testing centre in Great Britain.
Motorcycles in Great Britain need their first MOT inspection at 3 years old, while those in Northern Ireland require their first MOT test after 4 years. MOT check is done annually after the first test.
A motorbike MOT test helps identify defects that could affect safe and legal road use while also checking relevant environmental standards.
MOT requirements differ between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, so motorcycle owners should follow the rules applicable to their vehicle.
A motorcycle that passes receives an MOT certificate, while a failed motorcycle must have the relevant defects repaired and requires a retest.
When Does a Motorcycle Need an MOT?
A motorcycle needs its first MOT based on the date it was first registered.
New motorbikes in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) require their first MOT when they are 3 years old.
The bikes in Northern Ireland need to get their first MOT after 4 years from the date of first registration, as per law.
Motorcycle owners should check the applicable testing requirements for their vehicle, as the MOT rules differ between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
A motorcycle normally requires an MOT every year after its first test, with each subsequent test due before the current MOT certificate expires.
Owners can check the MOT due or expiry date and current status using the motorcycle's registration number through the official DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) vehicle enquiry service.
A motorcycle is eligible for the historic vehicle exemption when it reaches 40 years old, provided it meets the relevant requirements.
This exemption reflects the historic status of qualifying older motorcycles and recognises that they are preserved in their original or substantially unmodified form.
Vehicle owners remain responsible for ensuring an exempt motorcycle is safe and roadworthy before using it on public roads.
What Does a Motorcycle MOT Check Include?
A motorcycle MOT check includes 16 key inspection areas that assess whether the motorcycle meets the required safety and roadworthiness standards.
MOT test data from 2018 to 2019 showed that 16.9% of motorcycles failed their MOT on the first attempt, highlighting the importance of understanding each inspection area and addressing potential faults before the test.
DVLA and GOV.UK provides MOT guidance and inspection standards to support road safety and help reduce avoidable test failures.
You can also use our MOT Checklists to review the main inspection areas and identify potential issues before taking your motorcycle for its MOT.
The 16 motorcycle MOT inspection areas are listed below.
- Lights and Indicators
- Steering and Suspension
- Wheels and Tyres
- Braking
- Frame
- Exhaust System
- Fuel System
- Seats
- Wheel Alignment
- Sidecar, if fitted
- Horn
- Number Plate, Frame Number, and Vehicle Identification Number
- Sprocket and Drive Chain
- Throttle
- Clutch Lever
- Footrests
Lights and Indicators
A motorcycle’s lights and indicators are checked during the MOT to confirm that the headlights, rear lights, indicators and reflectors work correctly, show the required colour and are securely fitted.
The MOT tester also checks the headlight aim to ensure the beam is correctly positioned and does not interfere with the vision of other road users.
The table below lists common light and indicator defects and their MOT categories.
Defect | Category |
|---|---|
All stop lamps are missing or inoperative. | Dangerous |
A stop lamp remains illuminated when the brakes are released. | Dangerous |
Steering and Suspension
An MOT technician checks the motorcycle’s forks, handlebars, steering head bearings, shock absorbers, damping, swing arms, springs and grip mountings.
These components are assessed for their condition, secure fitting, and proper operation to ensure they do not adversely affect steering control or suspension performance.
The following table outlines the steering and suspension defects identified during an MOT test, along with their corresponding defect categories.
Defect | Category |
|---|---|
A steering linkage component has excessive movement between components or is likely to become detached. | Dangerous |
A steering ball joint is worn to the extent that there is a serious risk of detachment. | Dangerous |
A steering linkage component is fractured or deformed to the extent that steering is affected. | Dangerous |
The steering linkage has been modified to the extent that steering is affected. | Dangerous |
A steering damper is in a condition that adversely affects steering action. | Dangerous |
A handlebar mounting is so insecure that steering is adversely affected. | Dangerous |
A handlebar is so insecure that it is likely to become detached. | Dangerous |
A handlebar is fractured, deformed, or corroded to the extent that steering is adversely affected or detachment is likely. | Dangerous |
A handlebar grip is insecure on the handlebar. | Dangerous |
Forks or a fork yoke are in a condition that adversely affects steering control. | Dangerous |
Steering head bearings are in a condition that adversely affects steering control. | Dangerous |
A spring is so insecure that motorcycle control is likely to be adversely affected. | Dangerous |
A spring has a fractured main leaf. | Dangerous |
A spring is missing, and motorcycle control is likely to be adversely affected. | Dangerous |
A shock absorber is missing or likely to become detached. | Dangerous |
A suspension component is missing and is likely to become detached or impair motorcycle control. | Dangerous |
A suspension component is fractured or likely to fail. | Dangerous |
A suspension component has been modified so that the suspension is inoperative or likely to foul other components. | Dangerous |
A suspension pin, bush, or joint is likely to become detached. | Dangerous |
Wheels and Tyres
Motorcycle wheels and tyres are checked in an MOT test to ensure they are correctly fitted and in suitable condition.
This inspection covers factors such as wheel security, tyre type and size, tread depth, valve condition, and visible damage to identify faults that could reduce tyre grip, cause instability, or affect the motorcycle’s steering control during braking and cornering.
The problems identified in the wheels and tyres of a motorcycle during an MOT check are written in the table below.
Defect | Category |
|---|---|
A wheel bearing has excessive play that is likely to cause it to break up or impair directional control. | Dangerous |
A wheel bearing is so rough that it is likely to overheat or break up. | Dangerous |
A wheel has a loose or missing wheel nut, bolt, or stud in the case of a single fixing, or more than one loose or missing fixing where multiple fixings are used. | Dangerous |
A wheel hub is worn or damaged to the extent that wheel security is adversely affected. | Dangerous |
A wheel spindle or its securing nut(s) is so insecure that wheel security or steering control is adversely affected. | Dangerous |
A wheel has a fracture or welding defect. | Dangerous |
A wheel is corroded, damaged, or distorted to the extent that motorcycle control is likely to be adversely affected. | Dangerous |
A built-up wheel has missing or loose rivets or bolts to the extent that motorcycle control is likely to be adversely affected. | Dangerous |
A tyre has a lump, bulge, or tear caused by separation or partial structural failure, including lifting tread rubber, or has exposed or damaged cords. | Dangerous |
Tyre tread depth does not meet the required standard. | Dangerous |
A tyre valve is seriously damaged or misaligned and is likely to cause sudden tyre deflation. | Dangerous |
Brakes
MOT inspection involves checking the motorcycle’s brake controls and braking components, including the brake lever or pedal, fluid, pipes, hoses, pads or linings, discs or drums, calipers and cylinders.
Braking has one of the largest ranges of potential MOT defects because its faults can directly affect a motorcycle’s ability to stop safely.
The brake defects and their categories identified during a motorbike MOT check are mentioned in the table below.
Defect | Category |
|---|---|
A brake control is so insecure that the brake cannot be readily applied. | Dangerous |
A brake servo is inoperative. | Dangerous |
A master cylinder is leaking. | Dangerous |
Brake fluid is not visible. | Dangerous |
A brake pipe is at imminent risk of failure or fracture. | Dangerous |
A brake pipe or connection is leaking. | Dangerous |
A brake hose is damaged and likely to fail. | Dangerous |
Brake hoses or connections are leaking. | Dangerous |
Brake hose ferrules are excessively corroded and likely to fail. | Dangerous |
A brake lining or pad is worn below 1.0 mm. | Dangerous |
A brake lining or pad is missing or incorrectly mounted. | Dangerous |
A brake disc or drum is insecure, fractured, or otherwise likely to fail, or is missing. | Dangerous |
A brake caliper or cylinder is cracked or damaged, and braking performance is affected. | Dangerous |
A brake caliper or cylinder is leaking, and braking performance is affected. | Dangerous |
A brake caliper or cylinder is insecure or inadequately mounted, and braking performance is affected. | Dangerous |
A brake caliper or cylinder is excessively corroded and likely to crack. | Dangerous |
A brake caliper or cylinder has no reserve travel, and braking performance is affected. | Dangerous |
A modification to a braking system component adversely affects braking performance. | Dangerous |
On a motorcycle with two front or rear wheels, there is no recorded brake effort at a wheel. | Dangerous |
Overall brake efficiency is less than 27.5%. | Dangerous |
Frame and Structure
A motorcycle’s frame and main structural components are inspected during an MOT check for cracks, damage, distortion and corrosion that could affect steering, braking or structural strength.
Particular attention is given to faults that could compromise steering, braking, or structural strength.
This inspection also covers relevant transmission and engine mounting components to identify excessive wear, looseness or damage that could cause a component to detach or interfere with the motorcycle’s safe operation.
Frame and structure issues identified in a motorcycle MOT check are shown in the table below.
Defect | Category |
|---|---|
A main load-bearing structural part of the frame is fractured or deformed to the extent that steering or braking is likely to be adversely affected. | Dangerous |
Joining or attachment plates or fastenings are so insecure that structural rigidity is seriously reduced. | Dangerous |
A main load-bearing structural part is corroded to the extent that steering or braking is likely to be adversely affected. | Dangerous |
A transmission belt, chain, sprocket, or pulley is so loose or worn that it is likely to fail. | Dangerous |
A drive chain horseshoe locking device is likely to become detached. | Dangerous |
A transmission belt or chain is excessively tight and likely to fail. | Dangerous |
An engine mounting or bracket is fractured, missing, or excessively loose. | Dangerous |
Exhaust System and Emissions
MOT technician checks the motorcycle’s exhaust system to ensure it is secure, complete and properly fitted.
The MOT tester also considers the exhaust noise level to determine whether it is excessively loud or indicates a defect.
The exhaust system and emission defect, along with its respective category, are given in the table below.
Defect | Category |
|---|---|
Any part of the exhaust system is likely to become detached. | Dangerous |
Fuel System
The motorcycle’s fuel system is inspected for leaks, damage, and loose or insecure components in an MOT test.
The MOT technician assesses whether the fuel tank, pipes, hoses, and related components are safely secured and free from faults that could create a fire risk.
The defects identified in the fuel system during a motorcycle MOT check are shown in the table below.
Defect | Category |
|---|---|
A fuel tank, pipe, or hose is insecure to the extent that there is a risk of fire. | Dangerous |
The fuel system is leaking excessively or poses a risk of fire. | Dangerous |
Seats
The seat inspection in a motorcycle MOT check covers whether the rider’s seat is securely attached to the motorcycle’s frame and whether any fitted pillion seat is safely mounted.
The following table gives the seat defects identified during a motorcycle MOT test, along with their corresponding MOT categories.
Defect | Category |
|---|---|
The rider’s seat is missing or insecure. | Dangerous |
A pillion seat is insecure. | Dangerous |
Wheel Alignment
MOT motorcycle check provides details of wheel alignment, confirming that the front and rear wheels are correctly aligned.
Correct wheel alignment helps maintain stable handling, accurate steering, and directional control.
The MOT inspection can identify defects where incorrect wheel alignment affects steering or handling.
Wheel alignment has no dangerous defect category, but related steering or suspension issues are assessed as minor, major, or dangerous based on severity and road safety impact.
Sidecar
A motorcycle MOT check provides details of the sidecar inspection, covering its secure attachment, alignment, and overall condition.
MOT technicians also assess the wheels, wheel bearings, suspension, lights, and tyres to confirm that the sidecar is safely fitted and does not affect the motorcycle’s handling or roadworthiness.
Horn
A motorcycle MOT check assesses the horn to confirm it is in suitable working condition and provides an effective audible warning. An unsuitable, distorted, or unusual horn sound can result in an MOT failure.
There are no dangerous defects listed for the horn inspection category.
Number Plate, VIN, and Frame Number
A bike MOT check gives vehicle identification details such as the number plate, frame number, and vehicle identification number (VIN).
MOT inspection confirms that the number plate is readable and in suitable condition, while the VIN and frame number are checked for correct identification and legibility.
This category does not include any defects classified as dangerous, although certain defects are termed as major, as they can result in an MOT failure.
You can also use our VIN Check to verify the motorcycle’s identification details and gain a clearer picture of its vehicle history.
Sprocket and Drive Chain
Motorcycle MOT check provides information about the sprocket and drive chain, including whether the chain is correctly tensioned and free from excessive wear.
This inspection also checks the sprocket condition and chain guard security to ensure the drive system is safely fitted and does not present a roadworthiness risk.
Throttle
A motorcycle MOT check gives information about the throttle, including whether the throttle control operates correctly and allows safe operation of the motorcycle.
The table below provides the throttle defect assessed during a motorcycle MOT test and its corresponding defect categories.
Defect | Category |
|---|---|
A throttle control functions in a way that affects the safe operation of the motorcycle. | Dangerous |
Clutch Lever
An MOT inspection involves checking the clutch lever for damage, bending, or shortening that could affect its safe and effective use.
The lever must remain sufficiently intact and usable to allow the rider to operate the clutch correctly.
Footrests
A motorcycle’s footrests are checked during an MOT test to confirm they are present and securely fitted.
One major defect applies to this inspection area, with no dangerous defects listed.
What Are the Different Motorcycle MOT Test Result Categories?
The different motorcycle MOT test result categories are Dangerous, Major, Minor, Advisory, and Pass with no faults.
Each category indicates the severity of any defect found during the inspection and whether the motorcycle passes or fails the MOT.
MOT test result categories for motorcycles are mentioned below.
- Dangerous: A dangerous defect presents an immediate and direct risk to road safety. A motorcycle with a dangerous defect fails its MOT and should not be ridden until the defect is repaired.
- Major: A major defect can significantly affect the motorcycle’s safety or environmental performance. A motorcycle with a major defect fails its MOT and requires the fault to be repaired.
- Minor: A minor defect has a smaller effect on safety or environmental performance. A motorcycle with a minor defect can still pass its MOT, although the issue should be repaired.
- Advisory: An advisory identifies a condition that does not cause an MOT failure but may require attention in the future. An advisory does not prevent an MOT pass, but the issue should be monitored.
- Pass with no faults: A pass with no faults means the motorcycle meets the required MOT criteria without any defects or advisories being recorded.
What Is Not Included in the Motorcycle MOT Test?
The motorcycle MOT test does not include the motorcycle’s general mechanical condition, meaning it does not assess the bike’s mechanical health, internal wear, or performance of components that are outside the specific MOT inspection requirements.
This inspection focuses on specific safety and roadworthiness requirements rather than the internal condition or performance of major mechanical components.
The motorcycle MOT test does not include details about the following motorcycle parts.
- Engine
- Clutch
- Gearbox
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You can book a motorcycle MOT check before your current MOT certificate expires through a DVSA-authorised MOT testing centre by providing the motorcycle’s registration number.
You can choose an approved independent garage or a council-run MOT centre to carry out the test.
The motorcycle should be taken to the chosen centre at the scheduled appointment time.
A motorcycle with an expired MOT may only be ridden to a pre-booked MOT test where legally permitted, so the appointment must be arranged before making the journey.
You should keep the booking confirmation as proof of the appointment during the journey.
A motorcycle MOT costs up to £29.65 for a standard motorcycle and up to £37.80 for a motorcycle with a sidecar.
These are the maximum amounts a DVSA-authorised test centre can charge, although centres can offer lower prices.
The fee covers the MOT inspection only and does not include servicing, repairs, or replacement parts.
The mentioned charges apply across Great Britain, while Northern Ireland has separate MOT arrangements and fees.
You can check motorcycle MOT history by following the step-by-step process given below.
- Enter Your Motorcycle Registration Number: Enter the motorcycle’s registration number into the MOT history lookup service.
- Confirm the Motorcycle Details: Check the displayed make, model, and vehicle details to ensure you have selected the correct motorcycle.
- View Your MOT History: Open the motorcycle’s MOT history to see its current status, expiry date, and previous test dates.
- Review MOT Results, Mileage, and Advisories: Check previous pass or fail results, recorded mileage, failure reasons, and any advisory items recorded in the motorcycle’s MOT history.
Yes, you can check a motorcycle’s MOT using its registration number (number plate) through an online MOT history service.
A motorcycle number plate check or bike plate check can provide access to the motorcycle’s current MOT status and previous test history.
The results can show the MOT expiry date, previous test results, recorded mileage, failure reasons, and advisory items linked to the registration number.
You can MOT your motorcycle up to 1 month minus 1 day before its current MOT expires while keeping the same renewal date for the following year.
Testing more than one month early means the next MOT expiry date will normally be based on the date of the new test rather than the existing renewal date.
A motorcycle with an MOT expiry date of 20 September can be tested from 21 August and keep 20 September as its next MOT expiry date.
A motorcycle normally needs its first MOT when it reaches three years old, subject to the applicable UK rules.
A motorcycle MOT lasts for 1 year once the motorcycle is subject to annual testing.
A new motorcycle normally needs its first MOT when it reaches 3 years old in Great Britain, followed by yearly tests.
Motorcycles that qualify for the 40-year historic vehicle exemption may be exempt from MOT testing if they meet the relevant requirements.
The test centre will provide a list of the defects that caused the failure if your motorcycle fails its MOT.
The motorcycle can remain at the test centre for essential repairs within 10 working days before a retest, subject to the applicable retest rules.
A failed motorcycle should not be ridden on public roads unless it is legally permitted, such as travelling to a pre-booked MOT test or a place of repair under the relevant conditions.
The most common motorcycle MOT failures are explained below.
- Lights and Indicators: Lights and indicators that do not work correctly, display the incorrect colour, are insecurely fitted, or are incorrectly aimed can lead to an MOT failure.
- Brakes: Brakes with worn, damaged, or leaking components, or those that do not provide the required braking performance, can result in an MOT failure.
- Tyres and Wheels: Tyres with insufficient tread, structural damage, or an unsuitable condition, along with wheels that have security- or damage-related faults, can cause the motorcycle to fail its MOT.
- Steering and Suspension: Excessive wear, damage, or insecure fittings affecting steering and suspension components such as forks, bearings, handlebars, or suspension parts can result in an MOT failure.
- Exhaust and Emissions: An insecure or excessively noisy exhaust, or emissions that do not meet the applicable requirements, can lead to an MOT failure.
You can learn more about the reasons for MOT failure by reading our page on MOT failure.
Yes, motorcycle MOT history is publicly available through the official DVSA/GOV. UK online service.
Anyone can check a motorcycle’s previous MOT records using its registration number, without needing access to the vehicle owner’s personal information.
This record shows previous MOT test results, test dates, recorded mileage, failure reasons, and advisory items.
Yes, the motorcycle's MOT history shows the mileage recorded at previous MOT tests.
These mileage readings provide a useful record of the motorcycle’s usage over time.
Comparing the recorded mileage across different MOT dates helps identify unusual changes or potential mileage discrepancies, such as a reading that appears lower than an earlier recorded figure.