The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) is calling on the Government to introduce a mandatory minimum MOT fee of £54.85 as part of a wider review of MOT testing and roadworthiness requirements.

Representing a broad cross-section of the UK automotive aftermarket, including independent garages, national chains, motor factors and parts suppliers, IAAF believes the current approach to MOT pricing is no longer sustainable and risks undermining the long-term viability of the UK’s vehicle testing infrastructure.

With the maximum cost of an MOT test currently £54.85, the federation argues that widespread discounting and the use of MOTs as loss leaders have significantly devalued road safety inspections. As vehicle technology becomes increasingly sophisticated, the cost of delivering a thorough and compliant MOT continues to rise.

The IAAF is therefore proposing that £54.85 becomes the minimum fee for a Class 4 MOT test, ensuring the true value of the inspection is recognised. Vehicle testing stations are facing rising costs in technician recruitment, training, equipment calibration and regulatory compliance, while also preparing for future testing requirements linked to advanced driver assistance systems, electric vehicles and emissions monitoring,

Mark Field, IAAF Chief Executive, said: “To travel internationally you need a passport, to watch TV you need a TV licence and to operate a vehicle over three years of age, you need an MOT certificate. The cost of both a passport and TV license have increased since 2010, while the MOT fee has stayed the same. In line with inflation, the fee should be around £95, therefore the current fee structure devalues the work the MOT test station provides and it needs to change.

“The MOT remains one of the most important road safety checks carried out on UK vehicles. It is essential that the testing network is properly funded and that MOT inspections are valued appropriately. A mandatory minimum fee of £54.85 would be a sensible first step towards achieving this, while maintaining the current 3-1-1 MOT testing frequency to protect road safety standards.”

The federation will continue to engage with industry stakeholders and government departments to develop a sustainable framework that supports motorists, testing stations and vehicle safety alike.