A vehicle status check helps you review the available tax, MOT and basic identity records for a registration. Start by matching the returned car with the vehicle you are researching.
Start a free car check. Read the Free result, then choose Standard or Complete if you need wider history. The old vehicle-status tool description does not extend the current Free report to police stolen records.
What does vehicle status mean?
There is no single status that answers every question about a car. Tax status concerns the tax record. MOT status concerns the test record. Recorded stolen, write-off, export or scrapped markers describe other information.
Read the field name and the selected report’s coverage. A current MOT does not confirm that the vehicle is insured or that there is no finance outstanding.
Check tax and MOT records
Use the registration to review tax or SORN status and the available MOT expiry and results. The official vehicle tax check and MOT status check are separate government services.
A recent change can take time to reach a record. Compare the result with your documents and resolve any discrepancy with the relevant organisation.
Check insurance separately
Use MIB’s Check Your Vehicle guidance for an insurance-status enquiry that meets its conditions. Your own policy documents establish the details of your cover.
Tax, MOT and insurance are different requirements. Do not assume one result confirms the others.
Looking at an abandoned vehicle?
Public records can help identify the recorded vehicle and tax position. They cannot establish why it is parked there, whether its owner has abandoned it or whether you have permission to move it.
Follow your local council’s process for reporting an apparently abandoned vehicle. A history check does not give access to the keeper’s identity or private contact details.
Buying the vehicle?
Review the available history before paying. Standard includes available stolen, salvage and mileage information. Complete adds available finance, valuation and ownership information.
Compare the current checks and match the VIN and documents with the car at the viewing. Resolve identity or status discrepancies before proceeding.
