MOT test centres in Dorset
Dorset has 19 MOT test stations on the official DVSA register. 16 test cars and small vans, 4 are approved for motorcycles and 5 can test vans up to 3.5 tonnes. By law the test itself can cost no more than £54.85 for a car — many garages charge less, so it's worth comparing two or three before you book.
Not sure when your test is due? Check your MOT expiry free — takes 30 seconds with your reg.
Getting an MOT in Dorset
Test centres in Dorset are spread across 12 postcode districts (BH10, BH12, BH15, BH19, BH20, BH21 and more), so there's usually one within a short drive wherever you are in town. 1 of the 19 stations here also appears in our rated garage directory, so you can see customer ratings before you book.
You can book an MOT up to a month (minus a day) before your current certificate runs out and keep the same renewal date, so booking ahead costs you nothing. Bring nothing but the car — the tester looks it up by registration. If it fails, you're entitled to a free retest at the same station within 10 working days for most repairs. Run through our pre-test checklist first: lights, tyres and wipers alone cause a huge share of avoidable failures.
Top-rated garages in Dorset
All DVSA-approved MOT stations in Dorset
Frequently asked questions
How many MOT test centres are there in Dorset?
There are 19 DVSA-approved MOT test stations in Dorset on the official register, 16 of which test cars and small vans (class 4).
How much does an MOT cost in Dorset?
The law caps the MOT fee at £54.85 for a car and £29.65 for a motorcycle. Many garages in Dorset charge less than the cap, so it pays to phone two or three and compare.
Where can I get a motorbike MOT in Dorset?
4 stations in Dorset are approved for motorcycle testing (class 1 and 2). Look for the motorcycle badge in the list on this page.
How do I check when my MOT is due?
Use our free MOT checker: enter your registration and you'll see your MOT expiry date and full test history from DVSA records. Check your MOT now.