MOT N.I. reg'd car in mainland UK

[JuniorD]

Does anyone know if it is poosible to get a MOT carried out in mainland UK for a car that is registered in NI?

Initially we thought we would only be in England for less than 6 months so didn't re-register the car. Now it seems we'll be there for a further 6 months however the N.I. MOT is up at end Feb. Unfortunately I won't be able to get the car back home in the meantime. Do I have any options or has anyone else dealt with this issue before?

Thanks,
JuniorD

[Blimey!]

JuniorD said:

Does anyone know if it is poosible to get a MOT carried out in mainland UK for a car that is registered in NI?

Yes. There is no problem in doing that. During the strike there were long delays between applying for an MOT appointment and the appointment date - quite a few drivers took their cars to Scotland on a day trip to get it done.

[JuniorD]

Blimey! said:

JuniorD said:

Does anyone know if it is poosible to get a MOT carried out in mainland UK for a car that is registered in NI?

Yes. There is no problem in doing that. During the strike there were long delays between applying for an MOT appointment and the appointment date - quite a few drivers took their cars to Scotland on a day trip to get it done.

I had forgotten about that. I wonder, however, if Scotland operate a simalar type of MOT centre to our own, as opposed to the independent type used in England? Apart from proximity, would this in any way have been a reason why Scotland was the preferred alternative for NI vehicles?

[mccrackenj]

I can't be 100% sure but I'd bet the reason for going to Scotland was simply proximity and their MOTs would be same as England. I doubt Scotland would have a separate system from England and, even if it did, I can't see the problem with taking a NI reg'd car to an English MOT garage.

[Markh]

mccrackenj said:

I can't be 100% sure but I'd bet the reason for going to Scotland was simply proximity and their MOTs would be same as England. I doubt Scotland would have a separate system from England and, even if it did, I can't see the problem with taking a NI reg'd car to an English MOT garage.

Have always done that, I really hate the half arsed system in NI

[Colin L]

Have arsed it right Markh, the local system is (perfect Mr MOT staff using the internet while you should be working) crap.

Have been on holiday in England and got cars MOT while over, just remember to have all the paperwork and pick a good garage.

Colin L

[Blimey!]

Colin,
I've never needed any paperwork when getting a car serviced in England (i.e. no V5 etc).
Some will MOT on the same day, takes around 45 minutes and at the end you get a piece of paper.

[JuniorD]

Thanks for all the replies, much appreciated.

[AonFocalEile]

Yes, no problem, lived in England for 4 years and always had local MOT’s on NI reg cars.