The Department for Transport has confirmed new MOT testing rules that came into effect on July 6, 2026, impacting three groups of drivers: those operating HGVs, trailers, and buses or coaches. The changes, enforced by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), introduce updated maximum service charges for these vehicles.
New Maximum Charges for MOT Tests
Under the revised regulations, the maximum fee for an HGV MOT test rises from £55 to £70. For trailers, the cap increases from £40 to £50. Buses and coaches see their maximum charge go up from £70 to £90. These changes mark the first adjustment to these limits since 2010.
Government Justification
The Department for Transport stated: “We believe raising the maximum HGV test service charge by £15 (a maximum 9% increase in overall costs for vehicle operators if ATFs charge the full amount) is appropriate. This increase is less than inflation over the same period, which would have seen an increase of approximately £30.” The DVSA says the increase reflects rising operating costs and aims to ensure testing facilities can continue delivering reliable MOT services for commercial vehicle operators.
Impact on Operators
Backhouse Jones, a transport law firm, explained: “The maximum ATF service charge limits have remained unchanged since 2010. DVSA says the increase reflects rising operating costs and is intended to help ensure testing facilities can continue delivering reliable MOT services for commercial vehicle operators. The agency believes the revised limits strike a balance between supporting ATFs and maintaining access to high-quality testing services across the country.”
Fleet operators, transport businesses and trailer owners should be aware that MOT testing costs could increase, depending on the rates charged by their chosen testing facility. However, the new figures represent maximum permitted charges rather than mandatory fees. With ATFs remaining free to set their own prices, competition within the market is expected to continue, helping to keep costs competitive for operators.
Industry Reaction
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) commented: “It’s the first proposed change to these charges since 2010, and it’s already sparking debate across the sector. At the RHA, we believe it’s vital to consider all perspectives, balancing the sustainability of Authorised Testing Facilities (ATFs) with the financial pressures faced by operators.”
