It is legal to drive without an MOT certificate in the UK only in specific circumstances:
- Driving to a pre-booked MOT test or to a garage for repairs necessary for the MOT.
- Driving a car that is under 3 years old (4 years in Northern Ireland), as new vehicles do not require an MOT until they are 3 years old.
- Driving a historic vehicle that is over 40 years old and has not undergone substantial changes.
- Certain exemptions exist for heavy goods vehicles, buses, trailers, and electric goods vehicles registered before 2015.
In all other cases, it is illegal to drive without a valid MOT certificate, with penalties including fines up to £1,000 or £2,500 if driving dangerously without an MOT, penalty points on the license, and possible insurance invalidation. Proof of appointment is advisable if driving to a test or repair to avoid penalties.