IGA secure Government meeting to discuss MOT fee
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has secured a meeting with the Department for Transport (DfT) to discuss the MOT fee, marking a significant breakthrough in its campaign for a review of a charge that has remained unchanged for Class 4 vehicles since 2010.
The meeting follows sustained industry pressure over rising operating costs and concerns about the long-term sustainability of the UK’s MOT testing network.
Over the past 16 years, garages have faced substantial increases in operating costs, including labour, rent, equipment, fuel, energy, compliance and administration, while the MOT fee has remained unchanged.
Stuart James, Chief Executive of the Independent Garage Association, said: “We welcome the opportunity to meet with government officials to discuss this vitally important issue for the independent garage sector. The MOT fee has been overlooked for far too long now, which undermines financial viability of the MOT test.
Independent garages play a critical role in delivering this essential road safety test and ensuring motorists can access MOT testing locally. We are encouraged that the Department for Transport recognises the importance of maintaining a resilient and accessible MOT testing network.
Our position remains clear. The MOT fee must be urgently reviewed to ensure MOT testing remains financially viable for independent garages. A sustainable testing network is essential to road safety, consumer choice and continued access to MOT testing for motorists across the UK.”
The IGA has consistently argued that the current MOT fee no longer reflects the true cost of carrying out the test. As business costs continue to rise, many garages are increasingly forced to prioritise more profitable work, reducing the capacity available for MOT testing.
The IGA believes a fair and realistic increase in the MOT fee would help protect the long-term resilience of the MOT testing network, enabling independent garages to continue investing in their businesses, staff and equipment while maintaining high standards of vehicle safety inspection.
The IGA looks forward to its forthcoming meeting with the Department for Transport and remains committed to working constructively with government and industry stakeholders to support a sustainable future for MOT testing while continuing to prioritise road safety.
