The cost of a car MOT test in the UK could nearly double if proposals by the trade body representing auto garages are accepted by ministers. The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is advocating for the maximum MOT test price to be raised from its current cap of £54.85 to £95.

The IGA argues that the current price cap, which has been in place since 2010, has become unsustainable for businesses due to escalating industry costs. These include increases in labour, rent, equipment, fuel, energy, compliance, administration, and staff training.

"Inflation alone makes the current MOT fee unsustainable," the IGA stated. The proposed 73 percent hike to £95 is above the inflation-adjusted cost, which the Bank of England estimates would be £87.31.

Stuart James, chief executive of the IGA, explained that garage owners have indicated that without a significant increase to the MOT fee, they cannot continue to absorb the rising costs. He also warned that if the MOT remains economically unviable for garages, it could significantly impact consumer choice regarding the availability, location, and convenience of MOT test stations.

The IGA has reportedly secured talks with the UK government regarding the price cap, following an announcement last year that a review would be launched. Industry bodies, including the IGA, are scheduled to meet with the Department for Transport (DfT) on October 21 to discuss the potential increase.

Currently, approximately 66,000 MOT testers work at around 23,000 garages across the UK. In October of the previous year, reports indicated that the IGA had formally requested the DfT and the Treasury to consider an urgent increase to the MOT fee.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) recently announced price adjustments for MOT fees for buses, coaches, HGVs, and trailers, but these changes do not include fees for Class 4, 5, and 7 vehicles, which cover most cars.

In related news, new MOT rules were implemented this month to combat fraudulent "ghost MOTs," where a vehicle receives a certificate without undergoing inspection. The DVSA is now requiring participating garages to take and upload photographic evidence of vehicles being tested on a ramp. This initial phase targets approximately 2,500 garages in Great Britain. However, some former MOT testers have expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of the new photo system, suggesting that individuals involved in falsifying certificates may find ways to circumvent the new regulations.