MOT Agreement in Principle – What You Should Know
If you own a vehicle in the United Kingdom, then you are familiar with the important role that the MOT test plays in ensuring the safety and roadworthiness of your car. The MOT test is a government-mandated exam that every car over the age of three must undertake annually to certify that it meets the minimum road safety standards.
However, what if your car fails the MOT test? This can be a frustrating experience for any car owner, but it doesn`t have to be. One option that you may consider if your vehicle fails its MOT is to obtain an MOT agreement in principle. In this article, we will explain what an MOT agreement in principle is, and why you should consider it if your car fails its MOT.
What is an MOT Agreement in Principle?
An MOT agreement in principle is a certificate that you can obtain from a registered MOT garage that would allow you to drive your car legally on the road. This certificate states that your car has a mechanical fault that requires maintenance, but assures the authorities that you are taking steps to get the fault repaired.
An MOT agreement in principle is not a substitute for a valid MOT certificate. However, it allows you to continue driving your car for up to 10 working days without risking prosecution or heavy fines.
Why Consider an MOT Agreement in Principle?
There can be several reasons why a car may fail its MOT. Sometimes, the fault may be minor and easy to repair. Other times, the fault could be more serious, and require additional time and money to fix.
In such situations, an MOT agreement in principle can provide you with temporary cover while you get the fault repaired. This means that you can drive your car legally on the road without worrying about the consequences of not having a valid MOT certificate.
An MOT agreement in principle can also be helpful if you need your car for essential travel, such as to get to work or medical appointments. It can give you the peace of mind that you won`t be penalised for driving a car that has failed its MOT.
How to Obtain an MOT Agreement in Principle
To obtain an MOT agreement in principle, you will need to take your car to a registered MOT garage where it failed its MOT. The garage will conduct an inspection of your car and issue the agreement if they believe that the fault is minor and can be repaired within 10 working days.
Once you have obtained an MOT agreement in principle, you will need to get the fault repaired within the stipulated time frame. Failure to do so could lead to prosecution and hefty fines.
Final thoughts
An MOT agreement in principle can be a useful option if your car fails its MOT, and you need to get the fault repaired. However, it is important to remember that this is not a substitute for a valid MOT certificate, and you will have to get the fault fixed within the stipulated time frame. Always ensure that your car is roadworthy and safe to drive to prevent any accidents or legal issues.