Millions of drivers have risked fines by forgetting to renew their car’s MOT certificate over the past five years, according to the findings of the latest research.

An AA study of more than 21,000 motorists found that seven percent admitted to forgetting to put their car in for its MOT test up to a week past the deadline, while four percent said their test was carried out between a week and a month later than planned.

The data therefore suggests that more than 2.1 million drivers could have forgotten an MOT test by a week, while around 1.2 million drivers could have forgotten their car’s test by as much as a month.

Forgetting to have your car’s MOT renewed could result in a fine of up to £1,000.

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Simon Benson, director of motoring services at AA Cars, said: ‘For drivers across the country, MOT tests should be part and parcel of car ownership – or so we'd have thought. Despite the MOT test being an annual statutory obligation for cars over the age of three, it’s the sort of thing that can easily slip through the cracks.

‘It is crucial that drivers book their test in advance – they are not just a routine check-up, but a legal imperative to make sure your car is still fit to be on the road. You can currently get the MOT up to a month early and still keep the same renewal date – so there’s nothing to gain by leaving it to the last minute.

‘It is also worth noting that your MOT is a snapshot of time and regular servicing is vital to keep your car in a safe condition all year round.’