MOT, Tax, Insurance and V5C — Vehicle Documents Explained
The paperwork every UK driver needs to understand, and the exact facts that appear in theory test questions.
'Documents' is the smallest category on the syllabus but it produces some of the most memorable test failures because the numbers are precise. Learn these facts cold.
MOT
- First MOT required on the third anniversary of first registration.
- Every 12 months after that.
- You can drive without a valid MOT ONLY to a pre-booked MOT test appointment, or to a garage for repairs.
- Driving otherwise: £1,000 fine and invalidates your insurance.
Vehicle Tax (VED)
Every vehicle used or kept on a public road must be taxed. You pay online, monthly or annually. If you're not using a vehicle, you must declare SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) and keep it off the public road.
Insurance
Three main types:
- Third party — the legal minimum. Covers damage you cause to others.
- Third party, fire and theft — adds cover if your car is stolen or catches fire.
- Comprehensive — covers all of the above plus damage to your own vehicle.
The 'excess' is what you pay first if you claim. A higher excess usually lowers your premium.
V5C — the logbook
The V5C shows the registered keeper of the vehicle — not necessarily the legal owner. When you sell a car, you must notify the DVLA immediately. Failing to update the V5C on sale is a common exam-question trap.
Provisional and full licence
- Provisional licence: minimum age 17 for a car, 16 for a moped.
- You can drive on a provisional only when supervised by someone 21 or older who has held a full licence for at least 3 years.
- L-plates (or D-plates in Wales) must be displayed to the front and rear.
- You cannot drive on the motorway on a provisional unless with an approved instructor in a dual-controlled car.
New drivers' 2-year probation
For 2 years after passing your practical test, if you get 6 or more penalty points your licence is revoked. You'll have to reapply for a provisional and pass both theory and practical again.