In Cyprus a private car has its first MOT (τεχνικός έλεγχος, often just called "ΜΟΤ") four years after it was first registered, then every two years. A test costs €43 at a private MOT centre. This guide covers when your car is due, what is checked, how to find a centre in your city and what happens if the MOT runs out.
Last checked: 19 October 2026, against the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Regulations (regulation 65 and the fifth schedule), the Roadworthiness Testing Law as amended by Law 231(I)/2025 on CyLaw, and the Road Transport Department's (RTD) list of testing centres.
How often do you need an MOT in Cyprus?
| Vehicle | First MOT | Then |
|---|---|---|
| Cars with up to 8 passenger seats | 4 years after first registration | Every 2 years |
| Vans and goods vehicles up to 3,500 kg | 4 years after first registration | Every 2 years |
| Taxis, ambulances, buses with more than 8 seats, goods vehicles over 3,500 kg | 1 year after first registration | Every year |
So a car first registered in October 2022 needs its first MOT by October 2026, then by October 2028.
Imported used cars need an MOT certificate before they can be registered in Cyprus.
How much does an MOT cost in Cyprus?
The fees were set by law in December 2025:
| Test | Private MOT centre (ΙΚΤΕΟ) | Public RTD centre (ΚΕΜΟ) |
|---|---|---|
| Car or light van (full test) | €43 | €46 |
| Re-test after a fail | €10 | €10 |
The re-test price applies only if you go back to the same centre within 30 days. After that, it counts as a new full test.
How to check your MOT date
Your MOT certificate (πιστοποιητικό καταλληλότητας) shows when the next test is due. You must carry it in the car and show it to the police if asked.
- No MOT yet? Count four years from the date the car was first registered, which is on the registration certificate.
- Lost the certificate? Contact the RTD.
- Road tax. You need a valid MOT to renew your road tax, so an expired MOT will also stop the renewal.
What is checked at the MOT
The test follows the official list for every vehicle:
- Identification: registration plates and the chassis (VIN) number.
- Brakes: braking power and balance on a roller tester, and the handbrake.
- Steering.
- Visibility: windscreen, wipers and mirrors.
- Lights and electrics: headlight aim, indicators, brake lights and reflectors.
- Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension, including tyre tread.
- Chassis and body.
- Other equipment, such as seat belts.
- Nuisances: exhaust emissions, leaks and noise.
Before you go, check that every light works, the tyres have enough tread and no warning lights are on. A blown bulb is an easy fault to fix at home.
MOT centres in Limassol, Nicosia, Larnaca and Paphos
Private cars are tested at licensed private MOT centres (ΙΚΤΕΟ). The public RTD centres (ΚΕΜΟ) mainly test heavy vehicles and vehicles for people with disabilities.
The RTD publishes the official list of every licensed centre, with addresses and phone numbers: list of MOT centres (ΙΚΤΕΟ). The list of 6 July 2026 has these approved ΙΚΤΕΟ for cars and vans up to 3,500 kg:
| District | Centres for cars and vans |
|---|---|
| Nicosia | 51 |
| Limassol | 34 |
| Larnaca | 28 |
| Paphos | 21 |
| Famagusta | 9 |
The list counts each test line separately, so a centre with two lines appears twice. Motorcycles and vehicles over 3,500 kg have their own entries, and the public RTD centres (ΚΕΜΟ) are not on it. Call the centre to book a time.
What if your MOT has expired?
- The fine for driving without a valid MOT is €150 for a car, and €300 for a bus or heavy goods vehicle. There are no penalty points.
- In court it can be up to €1,708 or three months in prison.
- Road tax. While the car has no valid MOT, its road tax counts as suspended.
If your car is not in use, you can declare it off the road and test it before you drive it again. Our road tax guide explains how.
Your first car
Along with the MOT, keep your road tax and insurance up to date. Buying a used car? Our guide to buying a car and transferring ownership explains what to check, including the MOT.
Still preparing for your licence? The free road signs test and rules test help you get ready.
Frequently asked questions
How often do you need an MOT in Cyprus?
A private car needs its first MOT four years after it was first registered, then every two years. Taxis, buses and heavy goods vehicles are tested every year.
How much is an MOT in Cyprus?
€43 at a private MOT centre (ΙΚΤΕΟ) for a car or light van, and €46 at a public RTD centre. A re-test at the same centre within 30 days costs €10.
How do I check my MOT expiry date in Cyprus?
It is on your MOT certificate, which you must carry in the car. For a car that has never been tested, count four years from the date of first registration.
What is the fine for no MOT in Cyprus?
€150 for a car, with no penalty points. Without a valid MOT, the car's road tax also counts as suspended.
Where can I do an MOT in Limassol?
At any licensed private MOT centre (ΙΚΤΕΟ). The Road Transport Department's official list of 6 July 2026 has 34 approved centres for cars and vans in the Limassol district, with phone numbers to book.
Do I need an MOT to renew road tax in Cyprus?
Yes. You need a valid MOT and insurance to renew your road tax.