Millions of drivers are at risk of picking up a £1,000 fine for overlooking a simple MOT rule.
Fresh research has suggested that motorists remain unaware of the MOT regulations.
The research added that one in five drivers believe there is a grace period for when their MOT lapses.
While some also think that motorists can drive for up to three weeks after the end date of their MOT.
Motorists driving without a valid MOT risk up to £1,000
Kirsty O'Connor
New research suggests that one in five drivers believe there is a grace period for when their MOT lapses
Steve Parsons
More than a quarter of respondents to the research admitted to previously allowing their expire.
Speaking about the findings, Ryan Fulthorpe, a motoring expert at GoCompare said: “The worrying finding from this research is that almost one in five drivers believe that there is a grace period where they can drive their car, despite the MOT having lapsed - which is not the case.
“In fact, after its expiry, the only time it is suitable to drive a car is to travel to the MOT centre to renew a certificate or to take the vehicle to be repaired.
“Motorists risk up to a £1,000 for driving a car without a valid MOT.
“Drivers are expected to be responsible for the legal commitments that come with owning a car.”
He told Express.co.uk: “Other important events, such as tax expiry, will be communicated with motorists, but MOT expiry is something that drivers must keep track of themselves.
“Motorists can renew an MOT up to a month before its expiry, but you cannot drive a vehicle past this date unless you are taking it to be fixed or to a pre-arranged MOT test.
“An MOT is of critical importance to ensure that your car is safe in order to protect yourself and other road users.”