Run Flat Tyres & the MOT: What The Test is Looking For

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 by Chesca D
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Chesca D is a Content & Editorial Coordinator at Tyres.co.uk and is responsible for researching, coordinating, and producing accurate, up-to-date tyre guidance for our Knowledge Hub.
Each article is created using manufacturer specifications, recognised industry standards, and current UK regulations, and is reviewed internally to ensure clarity and technical accuracy. Content is updated regularly to reflect changes in tyre laws, safety guidance, and product specifications.
Fact-checked by the Tyres.co.uk editorial team
Published June 17, 2026
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Run flat tyres are designed to balance safety with consistent performance, granting drivers the peace of mind and convenience of knowing they won’t lose control of their vehicle – even if they get a puncture or flat tyre when driving.

This is an unrivalled advantage for those who don’t live close to a mechanic, and for those who typically cover long distance journeys in their vehicle. But what does it mean for the annual MOT?

Who Needs Run Flat Tyres?

Before we dive into the complexity of MOT testing and how run flat tyres are checked, it’s first important to understand exactly how run flat tyres work.

Run flat tyres are specifically designed to support a vehicle and allow it to stay on the road, even after suffering a puncture and loss of air pressure. They are built with reinforced sidewalls that can withstand the weight of the vehicle and keep the wheel rotating over a limited distance – until you are able to pull over and repair or replace the damaged tyre.

These tyres are ideal for those who live in remote areas, and those who want the convenience of their journey being largely unaffected by a flat tyre. But there are limitations…

How to Safely Drive on a Run Flat Tyre

If you decide to fit run flat tyres to your vehicle, there are a number of critical things you need to know.

The first is that once the tyre has become damaged and the reinforced sidewalls step in to do their job, you need to limit both your speed and the driving distance; the latter to 50 miles, travelling at no more than 50mph.

After 50 miles, you will need to pull over and repair or replace the damaged tyre, as while the reinforced design can withstand the weight of the vehicle for a set period, it is not an indefinite replacement for an inflated tyre.

The other thing you need to ensure is that you have an integrated TPMS, that lets you know when a tyre has become damaged. Because run flat tyres are designed to provide seamless driving support even following a blowout or puncture, the TPMS and vehicle display is the only way that you’ll know to drop your speed and cap your travel distance.

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How Are Run Flat Tyres MOT Tested?

With all that in mind then, how are run flat tyres handled in an MOT?

A standard MOT in the UK looks at the safety features of a vehicle – from its brakes and lights to the condition and suitability of its tyres. It measures the tread depth on all four tyres of a car and also inspects the condition of those tyres to ensure that they are not damaged.

For run flat tyres specifically, the 1.6mm legal minimum tread depth needs to be met, and tyres need to show no signs of external damage – with inspections looking specifically for cuts, bulges, and cracks.

Another MOT check which is specific to run flat tyres is the TPMS. In order for a vehicle to pass its MOT with run flat tyres, it needs a working TPMS that informs the driver of their tyre pressure – and lets them know when it has dropped.

Other things to note ahead of an MOT with run flat tyres include:

  • Ensuring that run flat tyres are not mixed with standard tyres on the same vehicle. If you opt for run flat tyres, you need to fit them to all four points of your car – both for MOT compliance and safety
  • Run flat tyres that have previously been damaged need to be replaced ahead of your MOT. Repaired run flat tyres are not considered safe and will not pass an MOT

We hope this advice helps you to prepare as you approach your next MOT – highlighting the advantages of run flat tyres as well as the things you need to consider and how best to prepare your vehicle for its safety check.

In need of replacement tyres, or want to browse our extensive collection of run flat tyres? Head to our individual brand pages where you’ll find options from budget, mid-range and premium brands.

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