Can I Scrap My Car Without an MOT?
26th Mar, 2025
If your car has failed its MOT or hasn’t been tested in a while, you might be wondering if you can still scrap it. The good news is, scrap car without MOT is entirely possible, and you can still get a fair price for your vehicle. Here’s everything you need to know about scrapping a car with no MOT and how the process works.
Can You Scrap a Car Without an MOT?
Yes! You do not need a valid MOT certificate to scrap your car. In fact, many people scrap their vehicles precisely because they have failed an MOT and are too expensive to repair. As long as you can prove ownership of the car, you can arrange for it to be scrapped at an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF).
How to Scrap a Car with No MOT
The process of scrapping a car without an MOT is straightforward. Follow these simple steps:
1. Find a Licensed Scrap Dealer
It’s essential to choose an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF) to ensure your vehicle is scrapped legally and in an environmentally friendly manner.
Scrap Car Network connects you with fully licensed ATFs across the UK, making it easy to find a reputable dealer near you.
2. Arrange Collection for Your Car
If your car has no MOT, it cannot be legally driven on public roads unless you’re taking it to a pre-booked MOT test. However, most scrap car services offer free collection, so you don’t have to worry about transporting the vehicle yourself.
3. Gather the Necessary Paperwork
Even if your car doesn’t have an MOT, you’ll still need some documents to complete the scrapping process. These include:
- V5C Logbook – The vehicle registration document, proving you are the legal owner.
- Proof of ID – A driving licence or passport may be required by the scrap dealer.
- Any Service History or Receipts (Optional) – These can sometimes help you get a better price.
4. Notify the DVLA
Once your car has been scrapped, you must inform the DVLA to avoid any future liability. Normally, this is done using the V5C logbook by completing Section 9 (or Section 4 on newer versions) and sending it to the DVLA.
If you don’t have the V5C logbook, you can still notify the DVLA by letter with the following details:
- Your name and address
- The vehicle registration number
- The name and address of the ATF handling the scrappage
- The date the car was handed over
For more details on notifying the DVLA, check out this guide.
5. Receive Payment for Your Scrap Car
Under UK law, scrap dealers must pay via bank transfer or cheque (cash payments are illegal). The amount you receive depends on factors such as:
- The weight of the car
- The condition of its parts
- The current value of scrap metal
To get an idea of how much you could receive, check out Scrap Car Network’s pricing guide.
Why Choose Scrap Car Network?
If you’re looking to scrap a car without MOT, Scrap Car Network offers:
- Instant quotes for your vehicle
- Free collection from your location
- Guaranteed legal disposal
- Support for UK-based charities
Find out how much your car is worth by getting a quote today!
Final Thoughts
Scrapping a car with no MOT is a simple and legal process. You don’t need to worry about getting an MOT beforehand—just find a licensed ATF, arrange collection, and inform the DVLA once it’s scrapped.
If your car is no longer roadworthy and you’re ready to get rid of it, Scrap Car Network can make the process quick, hassle-free, and rewarding!
