Use the vehicle MOT and VRM lookup
For mobile mechanics, type a UK registration and the vehicle's make, model, year and colour autofill from the DVSA register. On Autopilot, customers also get automatic MOT-expiry reminders.
What it does
For mobile mechanics, the VRM lookup takes a UK registration like AB12 CDE and pulls make, model, year and colour from the DVSA MOT register. You see "Found on the DVSA register. You can still edit the details below." and the fields prefill.
It saves typing and avoids the "is that an Astra K or a J?" guessing game, especially when the customer is reading the V5 to you over the phone.
Where it appears
The VRM lookup appears in two places for mobile-mechanic businesses:
- On the customer-facing booking form, so the customer types their reg once and the rest fills in
- In the trader-side asset editor, when you add a vehicle to a customer's asset register
Before you start
You will need a TradeBooked account with your trade type set to Mobile Mechanic. The VRM lookup is included on every plan from Solo. On Autopilot you can also enable automatic MOT-expiry reminders so customers are nudged before their MOT runs out.
Setup steps are in your dashboard
This is a Solo feature. Sign in on a Solo plan to see the step-by-step setup for your number.
Common questions
What is the right VRM format?
Standard UK format with the space, like AB12 CDE. The lookup is forgiving on spacing but rejects clearly invalid input.
What if the VRM is not found?
You enter the details manually instead. The lookup never blocks a booking or a save, it just tries to save you typing.
Does the customer see DVSA data on their booking?
They see the make, model, year and colour the lookup returned. No personal data; just vehicle facts.
Will TradeBooked remind customers about their MOT?
On Autopilot, yes. Automatic MOT-expiry reminders are dispatched to the customer before their MOT runs out. Make sure the customer has consented and that you have a current vehicle on their record.
What plan do I need?
The VRM lookup is included on every plan from Solo (for the Mobile Mechanic trade type). Automatic MOT-expiry reminders are on Autopilot.
Related guides
Still stuck? Email support@tradebooked.co.uk.