Key points
- MOT records log mileage at every test from the vehicle's third year onward
- A mileage check compares those readings to spot drops or unusually large jumps
- Cars under three years old have no MOT mileage record — rely on service history instead
- The V5C logbook shows keeper details but never records mileage
- Always cross-check the odometer, service book and V5C together, not just one source
- Start with a free mileage check by registration before paying for a fuller report
How to Check a Car's Mileage History by Registration (UK)
You can check a car mileage history by registration using its MOT records, which log the mileage read at each test. Comparing those readings shows whether the mileage has risen steadily or dropped, which can signal clocking. Enter the number plate for a free mileage check to review the available records in one place before you buy.
What is a mileage history check?
A mileage history check is a review of the mileage readings recorded for a vehicle over time. In the UK the main public source is the MOT record, which captures the mileage at each annual test. A check pulls these readings together so you can see the trend and spot any reading that does not fit.
How do you check car mileage by registration?
The number plate is the key. It links to the MOT record and lets a check surface the mileage logged at each test.
Find the registration from the advert, the V5C logbook or the car itself.
Enter the number plate to start a free mileage check.
Review the mileage recorded at each MOT test, in date order.
Look for any reading that falls, or a jump that looks too large for the time between tests.
Compare the records with the current odometer, the V5C and the service book.
Where does mileage history come from?
Most recorded mileage comes from MOT tests, which the DVSA logs from the third year of a car life. Before the first MOT, the only mileage evidence is the service record and any dealer paperwork. REGUP uses DVLA and DVSA source data where available to build the picture.
Where can you find mileage evidence?
Source | What it shows | Limitation |
|---|---|---|
Odometer | Current reading | Can be altered |
MOT record | Mileage at each test from year three | Nothing before the first MOT |
Service book | Mileage at each service | Stamps can be missing or faked |
V5C logbook | Keeper and vehicle details | Does not record mileage |
Mileage check | Available records in one view | Depends on source availability |
What if the car is under three years old?
A car under three years old has no MOT record yet, so there is no public mileage timeline. Rely on the service history, the dealer pre-delivery inspection and any invoices. Ask the seller to account for the mileage and keep the evidence.
Why check mileage before buying?
Mileage drives value, wear and servicing needs. A false reading can cost you at resale and hide a car that has done far more work than it shows. Checking first gives you a stronger position to negotiate or to walk away. For fuller protection, combine the mileage check with finance, stolen and write-off data.
Frequently asked questions
Can I check mileage history for free?
Yes. You can start a free mileage check by registration to review the available MOT mileage records. Paid reports add finance, stolen, write-off and other checks.
How far back does mileage history go?
The MOT record covers mileage from the third year of the car's life onward. Earlier mileage relies on the service history and dealer paperwork.
Can mileage legitimately go down?
Rarely. A replaced instrument cluster can reset the reading. If mileage drops, ask for the invoice that proves the repair, and treat an unexplained drop as a warning sign.
Does the V5C show mileage?
No. The V5C logbook records the registered keeper and vehicle details, not mileage. Use the MOT record and service history for mileage evidence.