How are lights checked during an MOT?

During an MOT, lights are checked to ensure that they are working properly and are aimed correctly. The following lights are checked:

1. Headlights – both the main beam and dipped beam are checked for brightness, alignment and condition of the lens.
2. Rear lights – brake lights, reversing lights on cars from 2018 onwards, and indicator lights are checked to ensure that they are working properly.
3. Fog lights – front and rear fog lights are checked to ensure they are working properly, on cars from 2018 onwards. Rear fog lights are checked on all cars.
4. Hazard lights – hazard lights are checked to ensure they are functioning properly when the car is running and not running.
5. Number plate lights – these are checked to ensure they are working and illuminating the number plate properly.
6. DRLs – Daytime running lights will be check and must be working on cars from 2018 onwards.

The tester will also check that the headlight aim is correct and that there is no damage to the lenses. Any issues found during the MOT will need to be repaired before the vehicle can pass its MOT.