Tyres, Maintenance & Roadworthiness
Can police or DVA stop me for a roadworthiness check?
Yes. DVA enforcement officers carry out roadside roadworthiness checks and can inspect vehicle identity and safety items.
nidirect says vehicles can be diverted by up to 10 miles for a roadside check.
Items can include registration plates, lights, steering, suspension, wipers, windows and other construction-and-use requirements.
A current MOT does not protect you from enforcement if the vehicle has developed defects afterwards. Roadworthiness is an ongoing responsibility.
Treat the issue as a current roadworthiness matter rather than something to leave until the next MOT. A valid MOT does not protect you if the vehicle develops a defect afterwards.
Research & verification
Sources checked for this answer
We use official and primary sources wherever possible rather than relying on generic AI-generated information.
nidirect - Maintaining your vehicle
View official source →
nidirect - Vehicle maintenance, safety and security
View official source →
nidirect - Roadside roadworthiness checks
View official source →
Information checked:
25 September 2026
