Is having a number plate stuck on over another an MOT failur

[JLGsDad]

Is having a number plate stuck on over another an MOT failure?

I just went for the first MOT on my car. It has number plates that aren't MOT-legal (at the time I didn't have the docs to get anything other than 'show' plates with the correct lettering etc - they look fine so don't get on my back over b******ized plates, please) and I took along some legal plates I've just got to stick on top.

Before I stuck the legal plates on the tester told me he'd fail the car for having one plate stuck on another. I couldn't get the the old plate offs because I didn't have the key for the locking bolts holding them on. He did the test and failed the plates. I'm changing over the plates and going back for a retest, but I'm plssed off over the hassle.

They said the requirement was in the tester's bible but I can't find anything online that backs them up.

Can anyone help?

[farrendahl]

At the risk of sounding like a bit of a git, yes it's a pain having to go for the retest, but if that's all the car failed on just suck it up swap the plates, get the retest and just put it down to experience.

[Steffan]

The tester was within his rights. But a bit pedantic IMO, on the basis that both plates showed the same number but in different styles.

If the plates were different numbers obviously the tester could not pass the car. The DVLA would have a seizure at the thought. Understandably given the cloning etc going on.

The DVLA are getting very concerned that the car presented for test is the actual car in the log book. Hence the caution quite rightly at swapping plates.

[Nurburgsingh]

Looking here.

http://www.transportoffice.gov.uk/crt/doitonline/b...

It would suggest thet there is nothing wrong with sticking on your legal plates.

I've done it in the past where I have stuck my cherished plate over the original, saves drilling holes or sticking them on wonky.

Never had a problem.

Get him to show you the item and failure reason.... Then report him to vosa

[Superhoop]

The tester failed your car, so it would seem that in this case, the answer would be: YES

If you knew the plates on the car were not going to pass (you must have, as you had other plates to put on) why did you leave it until the day of test to swap them over?

[veevee]

Should've told him to stuff it, and gone elsewhere. Really can't see why this would be a problem, especially if he's seen the plates underneath with the same letters, and you've explained why you're doing it.

[Fish981]

I'm an MOT tester, your tester is being an arse. If you want to take it further, contact VOSA.

[Eighteeteewhy]

If wanted to be an arse, he could have told you you needed welding, bushes etc.

Just change the plates.

[A9XXC]

My wifes car failed 3 years ago (incorrectly spaced) and I stuck the revised rear one over the old one and have had no problems since.

[rallycross]

Fish981 said:

I'm an MOT tester, your tester is being an arse. If you want to take it further, contact VOSA.

Yes indeed I have mot'd several cars with correct number plates stuck on top of non mot' worthy plates and it has never been a problem.

[Steffan]

A9XXC said:

My wifes car failed 3 years ago (incorrectly spaced) and I stuck the revised rear one over the old one and have had no problems since.

I think this is interesting in itself. I have thought for some time the DVLA would push the illegal plates off the road and clearly they are beginning to do so.

Since a number of PH'ers admit to changing plates for MOT's it must beg the question as to how long the practice will be acceptable. Off topic and I apologise for that, but very interesting in itself.

[Nurburgsingh]

Its nothing new I was pulled by the cops 15 years ago when driving a friends car which was spaced J 5WAN instead of J5 WAN.
Was given a producer and sent on my way.