How to Get MOT History API

An MOT history API allows businesses and developers to retrieve vehicle MOT records programmatically. Whether you’re building a car valuation tool, a dealership management system, or a vehicle check service, accessing MOT data via an API saves time and ensures accuracy.

In this guide, you’ll learn:
✔ Official MOT history APIs (DVLA & DVSA)
✔ Free & paid third-party APIs
✔ How to integrate an MOT history API
✔ FAQs & best alternatives

Let’s dive in.

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1. What is an MOT History API?

An MOT history API provides programmatic access to a vehicle’s MOT test records, including:

• Test dates
• Mileage history
• Pass/fail results
• Advisory notices
• Expiry dates

Who Uses MOT History APIs?

• Car dealerships (for vehicle history checks)
• Insurance companies (risk assessment)
• Fleet managers (maintenance tracking)
• Developers (vehicle data apps)

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2. Official MOT History APIs (DVLA & DVSA)

A. DVLA MOT History API

The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) provides an MOT history API for approved businesses.

How to Access the DVLA MOT API

1. Apply for access via GOV.UK
2. Meet eligibility criteria (e.g., legitimate business use)
3. Submit API request and await approval
4. Integrate using REST/JSON endpoints

⚠ Note: The DVLA API is not free—pricing depends on usage.

B. DVSA MOT History API

The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) also offers MOT data, but direct API access is limited. Most businesses use:

• Third-party providers (more flexible)
• Web scraping (not recommended due to legal risks)

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3. Free & Paid Third-Party MOT APIs

If the DVLA/DVSA API isn’t suitable, consider these alternatives:

A. Free MOT History APIs

API Name	Features	Limitations
UK Government MOT API	Free, official data	Rate-limited, basic info
Vehicle Enquiry Service (VES)	Free MOT checks	No historical data

B. Best Paid MOT History APIs (2024)

Provider	Pricing	Features
RAC Vehicle Checks	£0.10 – £0.50 per lookup	Full MOT history, mileage checks
HPI Check API	Custom pricing	Includes finance & theft checks
AutoCheck (Experian)	Subscription-based	Full vehicle history

💡 Pro Tip: Some APIs offer free trials—test before committing.

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4. How to Integrate an MOT History API (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Choose an API Provider

• For developers: Look for REST/JSON support & good docs.
• For businesses: Prefer no-code solutions (e.g., Zapier integration).

Step 2: Get API Key

• Sign up & generate an authentication key.

Step 3: Make API Requests

Example (Python):

import requests

api_key = "YOUR_API_KEY"
reg_number = "AB12CDE"

response = requests.get(
    f"https://api.mot-history.com/check?reg={reg_number}&key={api_key}"
)
print(response.json())

Output:

{
  "make": "FORD",
  "model": "FIESTA",
  "motTests": [
    {
      "date": "2023-05-15",
      "result": "PASSED",
      "mileage": "45,000 mi"
    }
  ]
}

Step 4: Handle API Responses

• Display MOT history in your app.
• Cache data to reduce API calls.

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5. FAQs About MOT History APIs

Q1: Is there a free MOT history API?

✅ Yes, but with limitations. The UK government’s MOT API offers free checks, but third-party APIs usually have better features.

Q2: Can I scrape MOT history data?

❌ No. Web scraping GOV.UK is against terms of service and may lead to legal issues.

Q3: Which API is best for car dealerships?

🏆 HPI Check or AutoCheck—they include full vehicle history, not just MOT data.

Q4: How accurate is MOT history data?

✔ Very accurate—comes directly from DVSA/DVLA databases.

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6. Best Practices for Using MOT APIs

✔ Check rate limits (avoid bans).
✔ Store data legally (GDPR compliance).
✔ Use webhooks for real-time updates.

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Conclusion

Getting an MOT history API involves:

1. Choosing between DVLA, DVSA, or third-party APIs
2. Registering for access (if using official APIs)
3. Integrating via REST/JSON

Need an API fast? Try:

• RAC Vehicle Checks (easy setup)
• HPI Check API (premium option)

🚀 Ready to build? Pick an API and start retrieving MOT data today!