Vehicle safety and roadworthiness are critical for every driver. In Nigeria, an MOT (Ministry of Transport) inspection ensures your car meets safety and environmental standards. One of the most common questions drivers ask is, “how long does an MOT take?” At Travo.ng, we provide clear guidance to help you plan your MOT efficiently.
What Is an MOT?
An MOT is a mandatory inspection designed to check whether your vehicle is roadworthy. It covers:
- Brakes and brake pads
- Tyres and wheel alignment
- Lights and indicators
- Suspension and steering
- Exhaust system and emissions
- Vehicle documents and safety compliance
Passing your MOT ensures your car is safe for the road and compliant with Nigerian transport regulations.
How Long Does an MOT Take?
The duration of an MOT depends on factors like vehicle type, age, and condition. On average:
- Standard cars: 30–45 minutes
- Older vehicles or high-mileage cars: Up to 1 hour
- Commercial or larger vehicles: 1–2 hours
Delays may occur if additional repairs are required or if the inspection station is busy. Planning ahead helps you minimize downtime.
Factors That Affect MOT Duration
Several factors influence how long an MOT takes:
- Vehicle condition: Well-maintained cars pass quicker than those needing repairs.
- Inspection center workload: Busy centers may extend waiting times.
- Type of vehicle: Vans, trucks, and commercial vehicles usually take longer.
- Required repairs: Any faults found during the inspection may require extra time.
By understanding these factors, you can schedule your MOT efficiently and avoid unexpected delays.
Tips to Speed Up Your MOT
Here are some practical tips for Nigerian drivers to make your MOT faster and smoother:
- Book in advance: Schedule your inspection to avoid long queues.
- Check tyre condition: Ensure tyres are inflated and have sufficient tread.
- Test lights and indicators: Replace faulty bulbs before the inspection.
- Ensure documents are ready: Have vehicle papers and previous MOT certificates available.
- Perform a pre-inspection: Consider a free tyre check or full car service with Travo.ng to address minor issues in advance.
Following these tips can reduce MOT time and increase the likelihood of passing on the first attempt.
Why MOT Inspections Are Important
MOT inspections are not just a legal requirement — they safeguard you, your passengers, and other road users. Key benefits include:
- Enhanced safety: Ensures brakes, tyres, and steering are in optimal condition.
- Compliance with Nigerian transport laws: Avoid fines or vehicle impoundment.
- Early detection of faults: Prevents breakdowns and costly repairs.
- Better vehicle performance: Well-maintained cars are more fuel-efficient and reliable.
Travo.ng emphasizes regular vehicle maintenance alongside MOT inspections to ensure Nigerian drivers enjoy safer and smoother journeys.
Other Related Services from Travo.ng
To complement your MOT inspection, Travo.ng provides:
- Full car service to keep all systems in check
- Free tyre check for safer and compliant tyres
- Brake pads inspection and replacement
- Emergency tyre replacement if needed
Combining these services with your MOT ensures complete vehicle readiness for Nigerian roads.
Plan Your MOT Today
Understanding how long an MOT takes helps you plan your schedule, avoid delays, and keep your vehicle roadworthy. Book your MOT and supporting services with Travo.ng, your trusted partner for vehicle maintenance, safety, and logistics in Nigeria.
