How to download MOT test logs

Before you start

You need an MOT Testing Service (MTS) account with an appropriate role. Roles that can access the Performance dashboard include:

• AE Designated Manager (AEDM)
• Site Manager
• Testers (can access their own data)

If you do not have access to the Performance dashboard, speak to your AEDM or Site Manager.

Step-by-step download

1. Sign in to the MOT Testing Service

Go to the MOT Testing Service and sign in with your credentials.

2. Navigate to the Performance dashboard

From the main menu or homepage, select Performance dashboard.

3. Select Test logs

Within the Performance dashboard, select Test logs.

4. Choose your date range

You can select:

• A specific day
• A week (Monday to Sunday)
• A month (maximum 31 days)

Choose the period you want to download data for.

5. Update the results

Click Update the results to display the test log data for your selected period.

6. Download the CSV file

At the bottom of the page, click Download CSV file. The file will download to your computer.

What the CSV contains

The downloaded file includes one row per test, with columns covering:

• Date and time
• Vehicle registration, make, model, VIN
• Test result
• Tester user ID and site ID
• IP address
• Test number
• Vehicle class
• Test duration
• Contingency information

For a full explanation of each field, see the MTS test log CSV field reference.

Tips

• Download regularly. The MOT Testing Service retains test logs for a limited period. Download and keep your own copies for longer-term records.
• Organise by date. Name your downloaded files with the date range so you can find them later (e.g., test-logs-2026-07.csv).
• Consider multiple sites. If you manage multiple VTSs, you may need to download separately for each site depending on your MTS access.
• Keep historical copies. Once a period is no longer available in MTS, the data is gone unless you retained it yourself.

What to do with the download

Once you have the CSV file:

• Review it manually in a spreadsheet application — useful for small volumes or specific investigations
• Import into MOT Lens — MOT Lens structures the data by tester, vehicle and date, highlights attention items, and keeps it accessible alongside your TQI, quality and booking records

Limitations

• Maximum period: 31 days per download
• Availability window: MTS does not retain test logs indefinitely — download before they expire
• Role access: you can only see data appropriate to your MTS role
• Format: CSV only (not PDF or other formats)

FAQ

Can I download test logs for multiple months at once?

No — the maximum download period is 31 days. For longer periods, make multiple downloads.

What if I cannot see the Performance dashboard?

Your MTS role may not include Performance dashboard access. Contact your AEDM to check your role permissions.

How long are test logs available in MTS?

Availability is limited. DVSA does not guarantee indefinite access. Regular downloads are recommended.

Can I automate the download?

There is no official public API for automating test-log downloads from MTS. The process is manual through the web interface. Tools like MOT Lens work with the CSV files you download.

Is the CSV compatible with Excel?

Yes — CSV files open directly in Excel, Google Sheets, or any spreadsheet application.