The cost of an MOT test could rise to at least £95 next year, according to the Independent Garages Association (IGA), which has secured talks with the government and the Department for Transport (DfT) to discuss increasing the current fee cap.
Under existing DVSA rules, the maximum price for an MOT is £29.65 for motorcycles and £54.85 for cars. The IGA argues that the car fee has been frozen at £54.85 since 2010, while independent garages have faced rising costs for labour, rent, equipment, fuel, energy, compliance, administration, and staff training.
IGA calls for 73% increase to 'unsustainable' fee
Stuart James, chief executive of the IGA, said the current fee has become 'unsustainable' and suggested a 73% hike to a minimum of £95. In a statement ahead of the talks with the DfT, James said: "We are being advised by garage owners that without a significant increase to the MOT fee, they cannot continue to sustain this ever-increasing cost burden."
He added: "As the representative body for the independent garage sector, the IGA will continue to challenge the Government to deliver an acceptable resolution to this issue before it causes a level of consumer detriment."
Garages already reducing MOT capacity
The IGA says a recent survey of its members showed strong support for an increase, with feedback indicating that a growing number of garages are already reducing their MOT capacity due to commercial pressures.
The DfT previously responded: "We understand the financial pressures faced by drivers and the industry surrounding them, including MOT centres, which is why we keep MOT fees constantly under review, working closely with industry to listen to their concerns."
The proposed rise would affect millions of motorists, adding to the cost of living pressures. The outcome of the talks could lead to a formal proposal to amend the fee cap, which would require legislative change.
