MOT Tests in Wales

In Wales, new vehicles need to go through their first MOT test after three years. After that, an MOT is required annually.

This aligns with the rules across Great Britain and differs from Northern Ireland, where the first test is at four years.
 

Booking an MOT Test in Wales

MOT testing in Wales is overseen by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

Unlike Northern Ireland’s centralised DVA system, tests in Britain are carried out by DVSA ‑ authorised private MOT testing stations (garages) across the country.

You book with an authorised garage rather than a government test centre.

The DVSA publishes and updates the official list of active MOT stations in England, Scotland and Wales.
 

Blackcircles.com Online MOT & Servicing Booking

Blackcircles now offers MOT and servicing through our website.

That means you can choose a DVSA ‑ authorised MOT centre, book a test in Wales, and combine it with servicing in one simple journey – all online.

The MOT test process in Wales

In Wales, as well as England and Scotland, the MOT is a structured inspection to check that your car meets essential safety and environmental standards.

The test follows the DVSA MOT inspection manual for cars and passenger vehicles, including numerous inspections such as (but not limited to):
 

1) Emissions and initial checks

The tester confirms your vehicle details and begins with an exhaust emissions check.

• Diesel vehicles undergo an opacity test using an approved smoke meter.
• Petrol vehicles are assessed against prescribed gas limits.

Under ‑ bonnet checks also cover key systems such as steering, brakes, and fuel lines.

If a diesel particulate filter (DPF) was fitted when the vehicle was built, it must be present; a missing DPF is an automatic MOT fail.
 

2) Lights, interior and body condition

Headlamp aim is checked, followed by an inspection of all mandatory lamps, mirrors, windscreen, washers/wipers, horn, seats and seatbelts. Body and structural condition is assessed, including door latches and fuel cap security.
 

3) Brakes and driver controls

Braking performance, balance and efficiency are tested (typically on rollers). In the cabin, the condition and operation of the controls are examined, including warning lights for systems such as ABS or airbag.
 

4) Under vehicle inspection

With the vehicle lifted, the tester checks steering and suspension components, wheels and tyres, the exhaust system and any fluid leaks. Where fitted, evidence of a tampered or removed DPF will cause a fail.
 

What Happens After The Inspection?

Your vehicle will pass or fail – if it passes, the result is recorded in the MOT database and you may receive advisories or minor items to monitor.

If it fails, the result will list major or dangerous defects. You cannot drive a car with a dangerous defect on the road until it’s repaired; doing so risks a fine, penalty points or a ban.
 

Retests in Wales

If your vehicle fails, you may be eligible for a partial retest:

• Leave the car at the test centre for repair and it’s retested within 10 working days – no fee.
• Take the car away for repair and return within 10 working days – a partial retest fee may apply.
• Return by the next working day for certain limited items (e.g., bulbs, wipers, mirrors) – no fee at the same centre.

How Long Does an MOT Test Take in Wales?

On average, an MOT takes around 45 minutes to an hour. The total time can be longer if the garage is busy or if repairs are needed before a retest. Many drivers choose to combine an MOT with a service to save time.
 

Which Cars are Exempt From MOT in Wales?

Vehicles of historic interest are exempt if they were built or first registered more than 40 years ago and have not been substantially changed in the last 30 years (for example, by swapping the chassis or engine in a way that alters how the vehicle works).

You still must keep the vehicle roadworthy. If your vehicle is exempt, you may need to complete form V112 when taxing it. Different testing rules apply to heavy goods vehicles and buses.
 

Is There an MOT Backlog in Wales?

Because Wales uses a decentralised network of DVSA ‑ authorised garages rather than government ‑ run centres, appointment availability varies by area and time of year.

It’s sensible to book up to a month minus a day before your MOT expires to keep the same renewal date and avoid last ‑ minute pressure – especially around peak months.
 

Booking your MOT and Service with Blackcircles

You can now book your MOT and servicing on Blackcircles.com and choose from DVSA ‑ authorised MOT centres across Wales.

Whether you want a stand‑alone MOT or to combine it with an interim, full or major service, you can arrange everything online in a few clicks to keep your car safe, compliant and on the road.