After an MOT expires, can you still drive?

In almost all cases, no. Driving a vehicle on a public road without a valid MOT is an offence and can bring a fine of up to £1,000.

The one exception

You may drive to a pre-booked MOT test (or to a garage for repairs needed to pass) even if the current certificate has expired. Keep evidence of the booking — if stopped, you will be asked for it.

The bigger risk: insurance

Many insurers treat a lapsed MOT as a breach of your policy conditions. If you have an accident while driving without a valid MOT, your cover may not pay out — a far more expensive problem than the fine.

Tax follows the MOT

You generally cannot tax a vehicle without a valid MOT, so an expired MOT often means expired tax too, adding a second offence.

You can run the free official check any time at gov.uk/check-mot-history.