Costs
How much does an MOT cost?
MOT centres cannot charge above government maximum fees for each vehicle class, but many garages charge less. Here is how pricing works — excluding repair bills.
Last reviewed 2026-10-02
Maximum fees set by government
In Great Britain, DVSA publishes maximum MOT fees by vehicle class. Test centres must not charge more than the published maximum for the class they test.
Most standard cars fall under class 4. The current maximum fee for your class is listed on GOV.UK — MOT fees. MOTCheckers does not set or collect MOT fees — always confirm with the garage.
Why quotes are often below the cap
Many garages advertise MOTs below the maximum as a way to attract customers who may also book servicing. Compare local independent garages, franchises, and council-run test stations.
Ask whether the quoted price includes VAT where applicable and whether a retest fee applies if the vehicle fails.
Costs beyond the test fee
Repairs after a fail are separate — bulbs and wiper blades are cheap; catalytic converters or DPF issues are not. See what an MOT fail means and MOT retests.
Pre-test checks you do at home (prepare for an MOT) can avoid paying labour for trivial fails.
Different classes, different caps
Motorcycles (class 1/2), larger vans (class 7), and passenger vehicles with more seats have different maximum fees. If you are unsure of the class, the testing centre can confirm from the registration.
Northern Ireland operates its own fee structure via DVA — check nidirect.gov.uk if the vehicle is tested there.
Frequently asked questions
Can garages charge more than the maximum MOT fee?+
For the statutory MOT test itself, fees above the published maximum for that vehicle class should not be charged. Always verify the official cap on GOV.UK for your class.
Is VAT added to MOT prices?+
MOT tests are typically treated differently from repairs for VAT purposes. Garages should show whether their advertised MOT price includes VAT — ask before booking.
Do failed MOTs get a refund?+
The test fee usually covers carrying out the inspection, not guaranteeing a pass. Retest fees follow separate rules — see our retest guide.