When is my first HGV MOT due?

faqs -> regulations

The timeline for the first MOT for commercial vehicles depends on whether the vehicle is a motor vehicle (e.g., rigid trucks, prime movers) or a trailer.

For Trailers

Under the Goods Vehicles (Plating and Testing) Regulations 1988 Part II, Regulation 9(2):
"Every trailer shall be submitted for a first examination not later than the end of the calendar month in which falls the first anniversary of the date on which it was first sold or supplied by retail."

This date is typically the date of sale, which often aligns with the delivery date or the invoice date. For example, if your trailer was sold on 15th January 2024, the first MOT must be completed by 31st January 2025.

For Motor Vehicles (Rigids and Prime Movers)

For motor vehicles, the requirement is slightly different. Under Regulation 9(1):
"Every motor vehicle shall be submitted for a first examination not later than the end of the calendar month in which falls the first anniversary of the date on which it was first registered."

The date of first registration is usually listed on the V5C registration document. For instance, if the vehicle was registered on 10th March 2024, the first MOT must be completed by 31st March 2025.

Key Points to Remember:

• Trailers: The first MOT is due based on the sale date.
• Motor Vehicles: The first MOT is due based on the registration date.