IGA Secures Meeting with Government to Discuss MOT Fee
10 August 2026 
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is set to meet with the Department for Transport (DfT) to discuss the future of the MOT fee, in what the association describes as an important step forward in its long-running campaign for a review of the charge.
The meeting follows sustained pressure from across the aftermarket, with many garages and industry stakeholders warning that the maximum fee for a Class 4 MOT, unchanged since 2010, no longer reflects the true cost of carrying out the test.
During the past 16 years, workshops have seen operating costs rise significantly, with increases in labour, rent, equipment, fuel, energy, compliance and administration all placing additional pressure on the profitability of MOT testing.
Stuart James, Chief Executive of the Independent Garage Association, said: “We welcome the opportunity to meet with government officials to discuss this vitally important issue for the independent garage sector. The MOT fee has been overlooked for far too long now, which undermines the financial viability of the MOT test.
“Independent garages play a critical role in delivering this essential road safety test and ensuring motorists can access MOT testing locally. We are encouraged that the Department for Transport recognises the importance of maintaining a resilient and accessible MOT testing network.
“Our position remains clear. The MOT fee must be urgently reviewed to ensure MOT testing remains financially viable for independent garages. A sustainable testing network is essential to road safety, consumer choice and continued access to MOT testing for motorists across the UK.”
The association has consistently argued that the current MOT fee no longer reflects the true cost of carrying out the test. As operating costs continue to rise, many garages are finding it increasingly difficult to justify allocating workshop time to MOTs instead of more profitable servicing and repair work.
It believes a realistic increase in the maximum fee would help safeguard the long-term sustainability of the UK’s MOT testing network, giving independent garages greater confidence to invest in their businesses, equipment and staff while continuing to deliver high-quality vehicle safety inspections.
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