Keeping your car road legal

There are a number of important requirements that your car must meet in order to be driven legally. All vehicles in the UK must be registered, taxed and insured. You must also have an up-to-date MOT certificate. Breaking the law by driving without the right documents can mean a fine or a ban from driving, and some offences can even result in a prison sentence.

MOT

Cars and motorcycles must pass an MOT test three years from the date of first registration, then every year after that. You mustn't drive a vehicle without an MOT certificate. Everyone who uses a vehicle on the road is required to keep it in a roadworthy condition. Driving a vehicle that isn't may invalidate your insurance.

Registration

If your car was bought new, the dealer will usually have arranged for the car to be registered for you. Check that your details on the Registration Document are correct.

If you have a second hand-car, check the Registration Document. When you bought the car you or the seller should have sent the registration details off to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to notify them of the change of keeper. You must notify the DVLA in Swansea as soon as possible whenever you buy or sell a vehicle, or if you change your name or address.

Tax

You must ensure that the road tax for your car is paid and up to date. You can get a tax disc by completing an application form (V10) available from any Post Office. Your tax disc must be displayed in your car at all times.

Insurance

All motorists must have valid insurance that provides them with at least the minimum cover - third-party liability. You must not drive a vehicle without insurance - it is illegal.

There are three different types of insurance policy:

The cost of motor insurance cover varies according to a number of factors such as your age, how long you've been driving, where you live, and the age, value and type of car you have.