Yes, your car can absolutely pass its MOT test without a spare wheel. The MOT inspection is focused on the safety and roadworthiness of the vehicle as it is presented for the test. This means inspectors only assess the condition of the wheels and tires that are physically fitted to the car. A spare wheel, whether it's a full-size spare, a space-saver "donut," or a tire repair kit, is considered emergency equipment and is not part of the mandatory testable items.
The key point is that the wheels and tyres that are mounted on the car must be in good condition. The tester will check for issues like cuts, bulges, excessive wear (the tread depth must be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre), and correct inflation. They will also ensure all wheel nuts are present and secure. If you have a spare wheel well that is empty, it has no bearing on the test result. However, if you are using a space-saver spare wheel, it must be correctly fitted and inflated to pass, as it is considered a part of the vehicle at the time of inspection.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) outlines specific criteria for the MOT test. The following table summarizes what is and is not checked regarding wheels and spare tyres:
| Checked During MOT | Not Checked During MOT |
|---|
| Tread depth on all fitted tyres | Presence of a spare wheel |
| Condition of all fitted tyres (cuts, bulges) | Condition of a spare wheel in the boot |
| Tyre type and size matching on the same axle | Presence of a tyre sealant or inflation kit |
| Air pressure (for obvious under-inflation) | Jack and wheel wrench |
| Security of wheel nuts/bolts | |
It's a smart practice, though, to ensure your spare is in good condition if you have one. A flat or perished spare defeats the purpose of having it for an emergency. But from a strict legal and MOT perspective, you can rest easy—leaving the spare wheel at home won't cause a test failure.
