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Motorbike MOT Guide
Much like cars, motorbikes in the need an annual inspection required by law in the UK.
An annual MOT test is to ensure the safety of all road vehicles, ensure they reach the minimum safety and environmental standards required for road use.
These standards apply to motorbikes, as well as other road vehicles such as cars, commercial vehicles, caravans, and much more.
Therefore if you’re a motorbike owner, you should know the ins and outs of a motorbike’s MOT, which is what this article will cover today.
What is an MOT test?
An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test for is a yearly inspection required for all vehicles on UK roads. This compulsory check applies to every road vehicle in the UK, including motorcycles, regardless of make or model.
The MOT ensures that your motorcycle complies with the minimum legal safety and environmental standards.
Even if your bike feels flawless now, regular use can cause wear and tear that may affect its safety and performance over time.
The MOT test is specifically designed to identify potential issues before they escalate, keeping your motorcycle safe and roadworthy.
Riding without a valid MOT certificate is not only illegal but can lead to severe consequences, including fines, penalty points on your license, and the possibility of your insurance being invalidated.
Understanding when and how to schedule your motorcycle's MOT test is vital for all motorbike owners.
Is a motorbike MOT Class 1 or Class 2?
The DVSA splits motorcycle MOTs into two classes, and it’s worth knowing which one applies to your machine before you book.
Class 1 covers motorcycles up to 200cc, including most 50cc mopeds and scooters. Class 2 covers motorcycles over 200cc, as well as any bike fitted with a sidecar.
The test itself covers the same core checks regardless of class – the classification simply determines the maximum fee a garage can charge, so a 50cc moped is tested under the same Class 1 rules as a small-capacity motorbike.
How often does a motorbike need its MOT?
Just like cars or any other road vehicle, motorbikes must take an MOT test once a year for ensuring the safety of the vehicle.
For a brand new motorbike, it’s also the same as new cars where the first 3 years of registration the vehicle does not need an MOT.
Motorbikes registered more than 40 years ago are classed by the DVSA as historic vehicles and are exempt from needing an MOT altogether, unless the bike has been substantially modified.
You can also renew your MOT up to one calendar month (minus a day) before it expires without losing the original expiry date, so your bike’s annual renewal date stays the same year after year.
There are no changes to motorbike MOT rules for 2026 – the annual testing cycle, fee caps, and Class 1/Class 2 structure covered in this guide remain exactly as the DVSA sets them out for the current year.
What will be checked during my MOT test?
As the date for your first MOT approaches, it’s important to know what will be inspected so you can prepare your bike and avoid any unexpected surprises.
Therefore, it’s always good to understand what will be checked for each of these parts of your motorbike.
The main parts of your motorbike that will be checked are the following, but not limited to:
Tyres
Tyres will play a significant role in your motorbike’s MOT inspection.
The minimum legal tread depth for motorbike tyres is 1.0mm across three-quarters of the tyre's width, so please ensure your tyres meet this threshold before your MOT test.
Also note that your tyres will be inspected for any cuts, bulges, or other damage that could compromise their performance – check your tyres thoroughly for these to avoid any surprises.
Brakes and steering
The tester will check that both the front and rear brakes operate smoothly, hold their pressure, and bring the bike to a controlled stop without excessive lever or pedal travel.
Brake fluid levels, pad wear, and any fluid leaks are also inspected, along with the condition of brake lines and hoses.
The steering head bearings and forks are checked for excessive play or damage, and the frame is examined for cracks, corrosion, or signs of accident damage that could affect structural safety.
Lights and indicators
Your bike’s lights and indicators are also inspected during an MOT test. This includes the headlights, tail light, brake light, number plate light, and of course the indicators.
The MOT will look to ensure that all lights are functioning properly and are in the correct place.
All lights and indicators must flash at a consistent rate and be bright enough to be seen clearly. Lenses should be intact and not discoloured.
Throttle and clutch controls
Both the throttle and clutch will be inspected, ensuring that they are functioning properly.
During the MOT, the throttle is checked to ensure it operates smoothly and returns to idle when released, with no stiffness or resistance.
The clutch lever must also function smoothly, fully disengaging the engine's power when pulled, and returning to position without excessive play.
Exhaust system and emissions
The exhaust system and emissions are also key areas of your motorbike’s MOT, ensuring it meets environmental standards.
The MOT will check that your exhaust is secure, free from leaks, and not excessively noisy. This isn’t just about passing the test – it’s about making sure your bike isn’t polluting more than it should.
The emissions test ensures that your bike meets legal limits for pollutants. If your exhaust is producing too much smoke or your bike fails the emissions test, it won’t pass the MOT. Aftermarket exhausts that exceed noise limits will typically result in a fail rather than just an advisory.
Mirrors
Properly functioning mirrors are essential for maintaining awareness of your surroundings while riding, helping you spot other vehicles and hazards on the road.
The test ensures that both mirrors are securely attached, provide a clear and unobstructed view, and aren’t damaged or cracked.
If your mirrors are loose, missing, or damaged, your motorbike will fail the MOT, so make sure your mirrors are in tact before putting your motorbike in for its MOT test.
Motorbike MOT preparation checklist
Running through this checklist before you drop your bike off can help you avoid a failed test and an unnecessary retest fee:
- Check tyre tread depth is at least 1.0mm across three-quarters of the width, with no cuts or bulges.
- Test all lights and indicators, replacing any blown bulbs and checking lenses aren’t cracked or discoloured.
- Check the front and rear brakes for smooth operation, adequate pad thickness, and no fluid leaks.
- Inspect the chain for correct tension and lubrication, and check the frame and steering head for damage or excessive play.
- Make sure mirrors are secure, undamaged, and provide a clear view.
- Confirm the exhaust is secure, free of leaks, and within noise limits – especially if you’ve fitted an aftermarket system.
- Gather your documents: the bike’s registration number (V5C not required but useful), and your previous MOT certificate if you have one.
How can you check the due date for your motorbike’s MOT?
To check the due date for your motorbike’s MOT status, you can visit gov.uk, enter your bike’s registration number, and the site will show the current MOT expiry date along with a full history of past tests, including any advisories or failures.
Making sure you’re on top of your MOT is very important, as you can start to plan maintenance around the due date to keep costs to a minimum, or even having your bike pass the test.
How much does a motorbike’s MOT cost?
The maximum costs of a motorbike MOT are as follows:
| MOT class | Engine size | Maximum fee |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Up to 200cc (including most mopeds) | £29.65 |
| Class 1 (with sidecar) | Up to 200cc | £37.80 |
| Class 2 | Over 200cc | £29.65 |
| Class 2 (with sidecar) | Over 200cc | £37.80 |
A retest after a failure is often cheaper than the original test – many garages offer a free or reduced-cost partial retest if the bike is brought back within one to ten working days and only the failed items need re-checking. Full retest fees vary by garage, so it’s worth asking before you book.
How long does a motorbike MOT take, and how do I book one?
A standard motorbike MOT typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes to complete, though this can vary depending on how busy the test centre is and whether any issues need a closer look.
Ready to book? Use our garage finder to locate an approved MOT test centre near you, compare prices, and book your motorbike’s MOT online in just a few minutes.
What happens if my motorbike fails its MOT?
Any major issues that is flagged in the result of an MOT test will fail immediately. The flagged issue will need to be fixed by a local garage before the motorbike is allowed to be on the road.
A minor issue isn’t flagged a significant risk. This doesn’t mean your vehicle isn’t roadworthy, however, the fix should be seen to as soon as possible.
A dangerous fault means your bike must not be ridden at all until it’s repaired – not even home from the test centre.
A major fault means the MOT has failed and the bike shouldn’t be ridden until it’s fixed, though you may be able to ride it directly to a pre-booked repair if the old MOT hasn’t expired yet.
An advisory is a note about something that isn’t yet serious enough to fail the test but is worth monitoring and fixing before it worsens – it isn’t a legal requirement to act on it immediately, but leaving it too long can turn it into a failure at your next MOT.
Final Notes
Maintaining your motorbike’s roadworthiness is not just about passing the MOT; it’s about ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Regular maintenance, understanding the MOT process, and addressing issues promptly will keep your motorbike in top condition and ready for any ride.
By staying informed and proactive, you can avoid common pitfalls and enjoy a smooth, stress-free MOT experience. Ride safe and keep your motorbike road-ready!
Motorbike MOT FAQs
Can I legally ride my motorbike to an MOT test without a valid MOT?
Yes – but only if you’re riding directly to a pre-booked MOT appointment. You must not use the bike for any other journey while the MOT is expired, and it must still be roadworthy, taxed, and insured for the trip.
What is the grace period after my motorbike MOT expires?
There is no grace period in the UK. Once your MOT expires, the bike cannot legally be ridden on public roads, except directly to a pre-booked MOT test, until a new certificate is issued.
How early can I renew my motorbike MOT without losing my expiry date?
You can renew up to one calendar month minus a day before your current MOT expires, and the new certificate will still run from the original expiry date rather than the test date.
Are classic motorbikes over 40 years old exempt from an MOT?
Yes. Motorbikes registered more than 40 years ago are classed as historic vehicles by the DVSA and don’t require an annual MOT, provided the bike hasn’t been substantially modified from its original specification.
Do 50cc mopeds and scooters need a Class 1 MOT test?
Yes. Mopeds and scooters up to 200cc fall under Class 1, the same category as small-capacity motorcycles, and are tested against the same core safety checks.
How much is a motorbike MOT retest?
Many garages offer a free or reduced-fee partial retest if you bring the bike back within one to ten working days to have only the failed items re-checked. Fees for a full retest outside this window vary by garage, so it’s worth confirming when you book.
How do I get a replacement MOT certificate if I’ve lost mine?
You don’t strictly need the paper copy, since MOT results are stored digitally and can be checked anytime via the gov.uk MOT history service using your registration number. A replacement paper certificate can be requested from the test centre that carried out the MOT, usually for a small admin fee.
What documents do I need for a motorbike MOT?
You don’t need to bring your V5C logbook, but it’s useful to have your registration number to hand along with your previous MOT certificate, if you have one, so the tester can check the bike’s history.
Will a noisy aftermarket exhaust fail my motorbike MOT?
Yes, an exhaust that exceeds legal noise limits will typically result in a fail rather than just an advisory, so it’s worth checking your aftermarket system meets standards before your test.
Can I ride my motorbike home if it fails its MOT?
It depends on the fault. If your old MOT hasn’t expired yet and the fault is rated major rather than dangerous, you can usually still ride it home. If a dangerous fault is identified, or your MOT has already expired, the bike must not be ridden until it’s repaired.