How To Check A Used HGV's MOT History And Paperwork

How to check a used truck’s annual test history, plating certificate, tachograph calibration and V5C before you buy, and the warning signs to look for.

A used truck can look tidy on the day you view it. The paperwork shows how it has been looked after over the years. Before you agree a price, take ten minutes to check the documents below.

The HGV Annual Test

Heavy goods vehicles have an annual test rather than a car MOT. The first test is due one year after the truck was first registered, and then every year after that. Tests are carried out by DVSA examiners at authorised testing facilities.

Checking The Test History Online

You can see a truck's test history free of charge on the GOV.UK check MOT history service using the registration number. Look for:

Repeat failures for the same item, which can point to a problem that has never been properly fixed.
Advisories, such as corrosion, worn brake components or oil leaks, and whether they were dealt with by the next test.
Mileage recorded at each test, to check it rises steadily and matches the odometer.
Gaps in the history, which may mean the truck was off the road.

The Plating Certificate

The plating certificate, often called the Ministry plate, shows the maximum weights the truck is legally allowed to run at, including the gross vehicle weight, gross train weight and individual axle weights. Check it matches the work you plan to do. A tractor unit plated at 40 tonnes cannot legally run at 44 tonnes without being re-plated.

The V5C

The VIN on the V5C should match the chassis number stamped on the truck.
Check the registered keeper details and the number of previous keepers.
Look at the date of first registration and the body type.

Tachograph Calibration

The tachograph must be calibrated at an approved centre at least every two years, and after certain repairs. Look for the calibration plaque near the tachograph or on the door pillar and check the date. If you run internationally, also check the tachograph meets the current requirements for international journeys.

Service And Inspection Records

Operators must carry out regular safety inspections. A full set of inspection sheets and service invoices is one of the best signs of a well-kept truck. Ask to see them and check:

Inspections were done at regular intervals.
Defects found were repaired.
Recent brake test results are within the limits.

Emissions Paperwork

If you work in or near a clean air zone, confirm the Euro rating on the V5C or certificate of conformity and run the registration through the GOV.UK vehicle checker. Our clean air zone guide for HGVs has more detail.

Paperwork With Every Truck We Sell

We list the MOT, VAT status and Euro rating on every vehicle in our used truck stock, and the available paperwork can be checked when you view at our Swadlincote yard. If you would like documents before you travel, contact our sales team.