Can You Get an MOT Without a Logbook?

Yes, it is possible to get an MOT test without a logbook (V5C registration certificate) in certain situations. While the logbook is an important document for proving ownership and registering your vehicle, it is not a legal requirement to have it present at the time of your MOT test. However, having a logbook can make the process smoother and ensure that all the details about your car are correctly recorded in the system.

Why is the Logbook Important for an MOT? The logbook (V5C) contains essential details about your vehicle, including the make, model, year of manufacture, and the registered keeper. This information is helpful for the MOT test centre to verify your car’s details, but it is not required for the MOT itself. However, if your car’s registration is missing or incorrect, it may cause delays or issues with the test.

If you do not have the logbook, the MOT centre may still perform the test based on the vehicle's registration number. However, they may need to manually check the vehicle's details with the DVLA to ensure everything is in order. This could lead to delays, especially if there are discrepancies in the information.

Can You Get an MOT Without a Logbook if You’ve Just Bought the Car? If you’ve recently purchased a used car and don’t have the logbook yet, you can still get an MOT. If the vehicle is taxed and registered, the test centre can use the vehicle’s registration number to carry out the test. However, you should apply for the logbook (V5C) as soon as possible to ensure the vehicle is properly documented.

It’s always a good idea to have the logbook on hand to avoid complications, and you can easily check your vehicle’s MOT status and history through our MOT Check tool.

What If You Lose the Logbook? If you’ve lost the logbook, you can still get an MOT, but it’s a good idea to apply for a replacement through the DVLA as soon as possible. The DVLA will issue a new V5C logbook, and you’ll have a proper record of your vehicle.

Conclusion While the logbook is not strictly required for an MOT test, it is an important document that helps verify your car’s details. You can still get an MOT without it, but having the logbook makes the process easier and ensures everything is in order. Use our MOT Check tool to stay up-to-date on your vehicle’s MOT status.