The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has announced major MOT rule changes that will take effect from September 2025.
The new measures include tougher penalties, advanced safety inspections, and stronger fraud prevention methods. Rule-breakers could now face fines of up to £2,000 and even “immediate” suspension if caught violating MOT regulations.
These reforms are designed to tackle MOT fraud, improve road safety, and bring MOT testing up to date with modern vehicle technology.
Why the MOT Changes Are Being Introduced
MOT fraud, particularly through “Ghost MOTs”—where cars are passed without proper checks—has been a growing problem in the UK. By demanding stricter inspections and proof of compliance, the DVSA aims to:
- Ensure all vehicles are genuinely tested.
- Improve detection of polluting and unsafe vehicles.
- Align MOT standards with modern automotive technology.
- Enhance public confidence in the MOT process.
Key MOT Changes for 2025
The DVSA outlined several new requirements that drivers and garages need to prepare for.
| MOT Change | Details | Impact on Drivers/Garages |
|---|---|---|
| £2,000 Fine & Suspension | Fraudulent or improper MOTs will face penalties up to £2,000 plus suspension. | Stronger deterrent against fraud. |
| Images in Garages | Photos required in testing bays to confirm vehicle presence. | Prevents “Ghost MOTs”. |
| Enhanced Emissions Testing | Stricter checks on polluting vehicles. | Higher fail rate for poorly maintained cars. |
| OBD/ADAS Inspections | Onboard diagnostics & advanced driver assistance systems tested. | Ensures safety features like lane assist are working. |
| Classic Car MOT Proposal | Possible mandatory checks for cars 40+ years old. | More scrutiny for vintage vehicles. |
| Examiner Points Threshold Raised | Points for disciplinary action increased from 30 to 40. | Fairer system, focusing on serious misconduct. |
Tackling Ghost MOTs with Technology
The new “Images in Garages” requirement will force garages to upload photos of vehicles inside testing bays. This prevents fraudulent claims that cars were tested when they weren’t. The measure is part of a wider DVSA effort to restore trust in MOT results and improve accountability.
Environmental and Safety Enhancements
Stricter Emissions Testing
With air quality a growing concern, MOT tests will now include tougher emissions checks. This ensures that vehicles exceeding pollution standards are identified and repaired before returning to the road.
OBD/ADAS Inspections
Modern cars rely on Onboard Diagnostics (OBD) and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including lane-keeping assistance and collision detection. From 2025, MOT tests will verify that these systems are fully functional, making roads safer for everyone.
The Future of Classic Cars
Currently, vehicles over 40 years old are exempt from MOTs. However, the DVSA is considering new safety inspection rules for these cars, citing the risks posed by older models lacking modern safety features. While no final decision has been made, this proposal could significantly affect vintage car owners.
Stronger Rules for MOT Examiners
To balance stricter rules with fairness, the DVSA has raised the examiner penalty threshold from 30 to 40 points. This ensures testers are not unfairly punished for minor mistakes while focusing enforcement on serious cases of fraud and negligence.
Expert Opinions
DVSA officials stressed that the MOT test is central to road safety, with over 32 million vehicles tested annually. They highlighted that only 2% of road incidents are caused by mechanical failures—proof that rigorous MOTs play a critical role in keeping UK roads safe.
The DVSA’s new MOT changes from September 2025 mark one of the most significant updates in recent years.
With £2,000 fines, tougher emissions checks, and fraud prevention measures, the reforms aim to create a safer, greener, and fairer MOT system. Drivers and garages alike must prepare for this new era of vehicle testing.
FAQs
When will the new MOT changes take effect?
The new MOT rules, including fines and enhanced checks, will take effect from September 2025.
How much is the fine for MOT fraud under the new rules?
Fraudulent MOT activities can now lead to a £2,000 fine and potential immediate suspension.
Will classic cars now need an MOT?
Not yet, but the DVSA is considering introducing mandatory inspections for vehicles over 40 years old.
