For the first time since 2010, the DVSA is consulting on raising the maximum service charges that authorised testing facilities (ATFs) for Class 7 vehicles (HGVs, buses, coaches, and trailers) can charge.
The proposed increase reflects rising costs for staff, utilities, and modern testing equipment, and follows feedback from ATFs and trade associations that current charges no longer cover operating costs.
The consultation specifically applies only to Class 7 ATFs. Other vehicle classes, including Class 1–3 (motorcycles, mopeds, tricycles), Class 4 (cars, small vans, light vehicles), Class 5 (minibuses), and Class 6 (large motorcycles or special categories), are unaffected.
The statutory MOT test fee for Classes 1-6 remains unchanged in real terms since 2010.
Independent garages have long argued that the current fee no longer covers overheads, particularly for workshops investing in modern diagnostic tools, testing lanes, and staff training.
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) recently wrote to Keir Mather MP, highlighting these challenges and calling for a formal review of the MOT fee to ensure long-term sustainability.
Under the DVSA proposals, Class 7 ATFs could see a maximum £15 increase in service charges, equivalent to a 9% rise in overall costs for vehicle operators if fully applied.
Class 4 centres, however, continue to absorb rising costs themselves, putting pressure on margins and investment potential.
The consultation started was launched on 25 September 2025 and will close at 11:59pm on 21 November 2025.
MOT consultation: The facts
Affected by the consultation:
Class 7 vehicles: HGVs, buses, coaches, and trailers
Tested at authorised testing facilities (ATFs)
Maximum service charges may rise for the first time since 2010
Not affected by the consultation:
Class 1 & 2: Mopeds, motorcycles, tricycles
Class 3: Motorcycles over 125cc
Class 4: Cars, small vans, and light vehicles
Class 5: Larger vehicles like minibuses (unless part of Class 7 ATFs)
Class 6: Large motorcycles or special categories
Key point for garages:
If you run a Class 1-6 MOT centre, the consultation does not change your MOT test fees. The statutory car MOT test fee remains unchanged despite rising running costs, leaving many garages still calling for a long-overdue increase.
