Independent Garage Association Seeks 73% MOT Price Cap Increase

The Independent Garage Association is calling on the UK government to increase the price cap for standard car MOT tests by 73%, which would raise the maximum charge from £54.85 to £95. The trade body argues that the current cap has remained static for 16 years since its establishment in 2010, failing to account for inflation and the rising costs of labor, rent, energy, and fuel.

Representatives from the association warned that garage owners cannot continue to sustain the increasing cost burden without a significant fee increase. The group is scheduled to meet with the Department for Transport on October 21 to discuss the proposal.

The Department for Transport stated it has no current plans to increase the fee, though it maintains the cost is under constant review. The department noted it is working with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency to balance affordability for motorists with the financial sustainability of garages. While car fees remain unchanged, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency increased MOT fees for coaches and HGVs earlier this year.