New MOT test changes launching today will see DVSA raise maximum service charges

It originally called for drivers and businesses to respond to proposals to change the maximum service charges that authorised testing facilities (ATFs) can charge customers to use their facilities.

Authorised testing facilities are the official designation for MOT centres that test heavy goods vehicles, buses and trailers.

More than 630 responses to the consultation were collected, with most participants supporting the measures.

This includes 99 per cent of ATFs and 95 per cent of respondents who were both vehicle operators and ATFs.

Despite this, only 62 per cent of vehicle operators were supportive of the measures, although this still outweighed those who did not favour the proposals.

The new changes, which are being introduced today (July 6, 2026), will see maximum service charges increase across the country.

ATFs will now be able to charge £70 for heavy goods vehicles, £50 for trailers and £90 for buses and coaches.

This will result in a price hike from current levels of £55 for HGVs, £40 for trailers and £70 for buses and coaches.

The consultation was designed to help ATFs cover their rising costs and allow them to plan for future testing equipment needs.

It added that the measures would keep the testing network sustainable, noting that extra capacity would benefit the vehicle operating industries.

The DVSA stated that it would publish a more detailed summary of the consultation responses "as soon as possible".

While some may not be happy with the new MOT maximum service charge rules, they have not been uprated in line with CPI inflation.

If prices were to rise in line with inflation, costs would have soared to £85 for HGVs, £62 for trailers and £108 for buses and coaches.

The changes launching today will not impact MOT costs for cars and motorcycles, which will stay at £54.85 and £29.65, respectively.