How long does an MOT take?
The MOT test itself usually takes 45 to 60 minutes. However, a garage may keep your car for a few hours or the day if it is busy, or longer if it fails and you want repairs and a retest done there and then.
An MOT does not take long to test, but how long your car is at the garage depends on how busy they are and whether anything needs fixing.
How long is the MOT test itself?
The test usually takes 45 to 60 minutes. The tester checks lights, brakes, tyres, steering, suspension, seatbelts, the exhaust and emissions, and the windscreen, following the standard DVSA inspection.
Why the garage may keep your car longer
Even though the test is quick, many garages ask you to drop the car off and collect it later. That is because they slot MOTs around other work. If your car fails and you want repairs, the total time depends on the fault and whether parts are in stock. For the faults that most often cause delays, see why cars fail their MOT.
How to get it done faster
- Book a quieter slot, mid-morning midweek is often less busy than a Saturday.
- Do the simple pre-checks first (lights, wipers, screen wash, tyres) to avoid an avoidable fail.
- Ask when you book whether you can wait, or how quickly they can turn it around.
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Key takeaways
- The test itself typically takes 45 to 60 minutes.
- Garages often ask you to drop the car off rather than wait.
- A fail plus repairs and a retest can take most of the day.
- Booking a quiet time, such as mid-morning midweek, can be quicker.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an MOT take?
The test itself is usually 45 to 60 minutes. Many garages ask you to leave the car and collect it later, especially if they are busy, so allow more time than the test alone.
Can I wait while my car has its MOT?
Some garages let you wait, but many prefer you drop the car off. If waiting matters to you, ask when you book and pick a quieter slot.
How long does an MOT and service together take?
Booked together, allow a few hours or most of the day, as the service adds time and any issues found can be fixed before the test.
What if my car fails?
If it fails and you want repairs done, the garage will quote you. Simple fixes and a retest can be same-day; bigger jobs may need longer or parts ordering.