Can you move a car with no MOT? What the rules mean in practice
Driving without an MOT is only allowed in a few cases. Having the car carried on a truck avoids the problem.
Updated 12 October 2026 · 3 minute read
The short answer
In Great Britain you can normally only drive a car with no valid MOT to a pre-booked MOT test, or to a place of repair for faults found at a failed test. Using it for anything else risks a fine, and your insurance may not cover you. Check GOV.UK for the current rules.
Why a recovery truck is simpler
A car carried on a flatbed isn't being driven on the road, so the MOT date doesn't stop the journey. It is a common way to take a car to a garage, a buyer or storage without driving it.
What to tell the driver
- Whether the car starts and drives onto the ramp, or needs winching
- Where the keys are
- Any damage or leaks that could affect loading