Check the history of any UK car for free
Type in a number plate to see every MOT test since 2005, the mileage at each one and every fault the tester found. We point out anything that doesn't add up, so you know what to ask the seller.
- Free to use, no sign up
- MOT records from the DVSA
- Cars, vans and motorbikes
What a free car check shows
Every result comes from the DVSA's MOT records. One number plate gives you all of this.
Full MOT history
Every MOT since 2005 in Great Britain, or 2017 in Northern Ireland, with the result and the reason for any fail.
Mileage at every MOT
We warn you if a reading is lower than the one before it, a common sign of clocking, where someone winds the mileage back.
Faults and advisories
Every defect the tester recorded, with its rating: dangerous, major, minor or advisory.
MOT due date
The date the current MOT runs out, or when a newer car needs its first MOT.
ULEZ estimate
Whether the car is likely to meet the ULEZ standard, based on its fuel type and age.
Vehicle details
Make, model, fuel type, engine size, colour and first registration date.
How to check a car's history
- 1
Enter the number plate
Type in the registration of any car, van or motorbike on UK roads. You don't need the logbook.
- 2
Read the summary
At the top of the result, we list anything that needs a closer look, like a drop in mileage or the same fault coming back.
- 3
Go through each MOT
Check the full record test by test, then take your questions to the seller before you pay.
What a free check can't show
Outstanding finance, insurance write-offs and stolen vehicle records aren't part of the MOT data. Finance companies, insurers and the police hold them, so you need a paid history check to see them.
Free car check questions
Is VehicleMonkey really free?
Yes. Every check and tool is free, and there's no paid report waiting at the end. Adverts on the site pay for the running costs.
Where does the data come from?
MOT history, mileage and defects come from the DVSA, the same records behind the MOT checker on GOV.UK. Our data sources page lists every source we use.
Why is there no MOT history for a car?
Most cars don't need their first MOT until they're three years old, or four in Northern Ireland. A newer car may have no tests yet.
Can I see who owns a car?
No. Only the DVLA holds keeper names and addresses, and it only releases them for reasons set by law, such as parking enforcement. No free check can show them.
Is this the official DVLA website?
No. VehicleMonkey is independent. We use official DVSA data and lay it out so it's easier to read. You can also check MOT history for free on GOV.UK.
Does it work for vans and motorbikes?
Yes. Any vehicle with an MOT record in Great Britain or Northern Ireland will show up, including vans and motorbikes.