The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has introduced a new rule requiring technicians to take a photograph of every car during its MOT test, as part of a nationwide rollout designed to combat fraud. The 'Photos at Test' feature began on 3 August following a trial period in 2025 aimed at clamping down on so-called 'ghost MOTs'.
Under the new scheme, testing stations must upload a photograph of the vehicle on the inspection ramp with its registration plate visible. This makes it more difficult for dishonest operators to issue certificates for cars that never attended the test, according to the DVSA.
Warning signs for drivers
Keith Hawes, director of car leasing provider Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, says the most significant warning sign is obtaining an MOT certificate without your car having undergone a complete inspection. He advises motorists to be cautious of any garage promising a guaranteed pass.
"The vast majority of MOT centres carry out important work keeping Britain's roads safe, but unfortunately there are some rogue operators who attempt to exploit the system," Hawes said. "The introduction of mandatory vehicle photographs is a positive step that should help improve trust in the MOT process and make it more difficult for fraudulent certificates to be issued."
How to verify your MOT
Drivers can verify their vehicle's MOT status and history through the government's official online MOT checker. Should a recently issued MOT fail to appear in the DVSA system, motorists ought to contact the testing station and look into the matter further.
While testing times may differ, a full MOT inspection requires a thorough assessment of a vehicle's safety and roadworthiness. If a certificate is issued within a suspiciously short period, drivers would be wise to confirm that all necessary checks have been carried out.
Expert advice
Hawes added: "Motorists should always ensure their vehicle physically attends its MOT appointment, check their MOT history online and be wary of any garage promising a guaranteed pass. If something feels too good to be true, it usually is."
The DVSA's rollout of 'Photos at Test' is a national measure, and no legitimate MOT testing station can guarantee that a vehicle will pass its MOT. Any business advertising a guaranteed pass regardless of vehicle condition should immediately raise concerns.
