Quick Answer
Yes, you can legally sell a car with no MOT. However, the buyer can't drive it on public roads until it has a valid MOT, except to a pre-booked test. Cars without an MOT usually sell for less and are often advertised as 'spares or repairs' or 'sold as seen'.
The rules on selling without an MOT
There's no law against selling a car with an expired or missing MOT. What's restricted is driving it: an untested car can't legally be used on the road except when driving to a booked MOT appointment.
Sellers should be upfront about the lack of MOT. Many list such cars as 'spares or repairs' — but that phrase can also signal deeper mechanical problems, so buyers should check carefully.
Buying a car with no MOT
- You can buy it, but you can't drive it home unless it's for a booked test
- Arrange transport or trailer collection if it has no MOT
- Factor in the cost and risk of getting it through a test
- Check the MOT history to see why the last one lapsed or failed
Check the MOT history first
See why a car's MOT lapsed and its full test record before buying — check any reg.
Check the MOT history firstFrequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a car I just bought with no MOT?
Only to a pre-booked MOT test. Otherwise driving without a valid MOT is illegal and can invalidate your insurance, so arrange a test or transport before collecting.
Is a car with no MOT worth less?
Usually yes. Buyers price in the cost and uncertainty of getting it tested, so no-MOT cars typically sell at a discount — especially if listed as spares or repairs.