The Maximum Legal MOT Fee
The DVSA sets a maximum fee that any approved test centre can charge for an MOT test. It is illegal for a garage to charge more than this amount. The maximum fees vary by vehicle class.
| Vehicle Type | MOT Class | Maximum Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Cars and passenger vehicles (up to 8 seats) | Class 4 | 54.85 |
| Motorcycles (without sidecar) | Class 1 | 29.65 |
| Motorcycles (with sidecar) | Class 2 | 37.80 |
| Three-wheeled vehicles (over 450kg) | Class 3 | 37.80 |
| Larger passenger vehicles (9-12 seats) | Class 5 (light) | 57.30 |
| Larger passenger vehicles (13+ seats) | Class 5 (heavy) | 80.65 |
| Goods vehicles (3,000-3,500kg) | Class 7 | 58.60 |
Prices shown are the DVSA maximum fees as of 2024/25. All prices are in pounds sterling and include VAT.
What Do Garages Actually Charge?
While the maximum fee for a car MOT is 54.85 pounds, most garages charge significantly less to remain competitive. MOT prices vary by location, type of garage, and current promotions.
| Garage Type | Typical Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National fast-fit chains | 25 - 45 | Kwik Fit, Halfords, ATS often run deals as low as 20 pounds |
| Independent local garages | 30 - 54.85 | Prices vary widely; some charge the full maximum |
| Dealerships | 40 - 54.85 | Often combined with service packages for better value |
| Council-run test centres | 40 - 54.85 | Not available in all areas; often perceived as more impartial |
MOT Retest Fees: What to Expect
If your vehicle fails the MOT, you will need a retest after the repairs are completed. The retest cost depends on where and when the retest is carried out.
Free Retest
If you leave the vehicle at the test centre for repair and the retest is carried out before the end of the next working day, the retest is typically free. Many garages also offer free retests within 10 working days for certain failure items.
Partial Retest Fee
If you take the vehicle away and return within 10 working days to the same test centre, a partial retest may apply. This covers only the items that previously failed and is charged at a reduced rate. The exact fee varies by centre.
Full Fee Retest
If you go to a different test centre, or if more than 10 working days have passed since the original test, a full MOT fee is charged. The vehicle undergoes a complete retest.
What Is Included in the MOT Fee?
The MOT fee covers the inspection only. Understanding what is and what is not included helps you avoid unexpected costs.
Included in the MOT Fee
- The full MOT inspection (all DVSA-mandated checks)
- Issue of a VT20 pass certificate or VT30 refusal notice
- Recording the result in the DVSA database
- An itemised list of any defects or advisories
- Emissions test (for applicable vehicles)
- Brake efficiency test on a roller brake tester
Not Included in the MOT Fee
- Any repairs required to pass the MOT
- Parts (bulbs, wiper blades, tyres, etc.)
- Labour for repair work
- Vehicle servicing
- Diagnostic scans beyond the MOT scope
- Retest fees (if applicable)
Tips to Save Money on Your MOT
While the MOT test fee itself is relatively modest, the cost of unexpected repairs can add up quickly. Here are practical ways to keep your overall MOT costs down.
Do a pre-MOT check at home
Check all lights, wipers, washers, tyres, and horn yourself before the test. Fixing a blown bulb at home costs under 10 pounds — having a garage do it could cost 20 to 30 pounds in labour.
Compare prices online
Use comparison sites like BookMyGarage, WhoCanFixMyCar, or ClickMechanic to compare MOT prices in your area. Prices can vary by 20 pounds or more between garages on the same street.
Look for MOT deals and vouchers
National chains regularly offer MOT deals — sometimes as low as 20 pounds. Check voucher sites, social media offers, and sign up for email newsletters from major chains.
Book an MOT and service together
Many garages offer a combined MOT and service deal at a discounted price. This can save 20 to 50 pounds compared to booking them separately.
Get repair quotes before agreeing
If your car fails, you are not obliged to have repairs done at the test centre. Get a written quote, then compare it with other local garages. You have 10 working days to get a free or reduced-cost retest at the same centre.
Review your MOT history
Check your vehicle's previous MOT results using our free tool. Advisories from last year often become failures this year — addressing them proactively avoids emergency repair costs.
Check Your Vehicle's MOT History
Review past advisories and failures to plan ahead and avoid unexpected repair bills at your next MOT. Enter any UK registration number for a free, instant check.
Free MOT Check