The DVSA has announced a change to MOT testing procedures in its latest attempt to reduce fraud in the system. Starting this month, the agency is trialling a new digital image capture system, which will require testers to upload a digital photograph of the vehicle being tested, before the test takes place. The aim is to prevent so-called “ghost” MOTs, where the bike, car or truck is given a test pass without even visiting a test centre.
The DVSA’s head of MOT policy, Chris Price, said: “We want to create a level playing field where high-quality testing is the standard. Capturing images at the time of the test will help prevent fraud while ensuring MOTs are conducted correctly.”
Meanwhile, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) is set to meet the roads minister, Lilian Greenwood, to discuss the MOT test fee, which the IGA says hasn’t changed in 14 years. Stuart James, chief executive of the IGA, said: “We are pleased to have the opportunity to discuss the pressing issues around the stagnant MOT fees. This meeting is a crucial step in highlighting how the unchanged fee, coupled with inflationary pressures and additional costs in the recent autumn budget, has created an unsustainable environment for many independent garage businesses.”