9:59 am, June 30, 2026
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has called for the government to increase to price of MOT tests ‘as a matter of urgency’ as businesses continue to battle rising costs.
Earlier this month, the DVSA announced increases to MOT fees for busses, coaches, HGVs and trailers but the IGA is unhappy that class 4, 5 and 7 vehicles have not been included in the rises.
The body, which is the largest trade association representing independent garages in the UK, says that MOT testing work is currently ‘unsustainable’ amid ‘additional cost pressures’ and ‘growing complexities’.
It has now written to senior officials at both the Department for Transport and the Treasury, outlining why the fees should be increased.
Leaders say independent garages continue to incur cost pressures over and above inflation relating to labour, rent, equipment, fuel, energy, compliance and administrative costs.
The current MOT fee cap for class 4 vehicles has remained unchanged, at £54.85 since 2010.
Outlining the IGA’s position, CEO Stuart James said: ‘Our members are advising us that the current situation, relating to the stagnant MOT fee cap, is leading to garages setting up their facilities to prioritise more profitable work, reducing the number of bays available for MOT testing and therefore reducing the national capacity.
‘We need to ensure that independent garages are able to prioritise the availability of workshop facilities and resources for this vital service.
‘If the MOT does not remain economically viable for garages, this would have a significant impact on consumer choice with regards to accessibility, locality and convenience of available MOT test stations.’
A spokesman for the Department for Transport told Car Dealer: ‘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.’
Car Dealer has contacted the Treasury for comment.
