How Much Does an MOT Cost

Keeping your car road-legal is simple, but the cost matters. An MOT test in the UK costs between £30 and £55, depending on the vehicle type and where you book. The maximum fees are capped by the DVSA, but many garages and chains offer discounted MOTs from £25 upwards.

This guide breaks down every detail, from MOT fees, discounts, retest charges, vehicle-specific prices, saving tips, and even celebrity car connections, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.

MOT Test Prices in the UK

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) sets a maximum fee that garages can charge for MOTs. However, garages can charge less to attract customers.

Vehicle Type Maximum MOT Fee
Car (up to 8 seats) £54.85
Motorcycle £29.65
Van (up to 3,500kg) £58.60
Minibus (up to 16 seats) £59.55

👉 Most drivers pay between £30–£50. Independent garages and booking sites often discount MOTs to £25–£40, while premium garages usually charge the full rate.

MOT Discounts and Deals

Many garages compete for customers by offering reduced MOT prices. Some even offer vouchers and online booking discounts.

  • Halfords: MOT from £39 (with online booking deals).

  • Kwik Fit: MOT + service bundle deals starting £99.

  • ATS Euromaster: Discounts during seasonal promotions.

  • Local Garages: Independent garages often offer £25–£35 MOTs to secure repeat business.

💡 Tip: Search for “cheap MOT near me” to spot the latest discounts.

What’s Included in the MOT Fee?

The MOT fee covers a wide range of checks to ensure your car is safe and legal.

  • Lights, horn, and electricals

  • Steering and suspension

  • Brakes and handbrake

  • Tyres and wheels

  • Exhaust and emissions

  • Windscreen, mirrors, and wipers

  • Seatbelts and safety systems

⚠️ Repairs are not included in the MOT fee. If your car fails, you’ll need to pay separately for repairs.

MOT Retest Costs – Do You Pay Again?

You don’t always have to pay for a full MOT again if your car fails.

  • Free Retest: If repairs are done at the same garage within 10 working days.

  • Partial Retest Fee: If you take the car away for minor fixes and return within 10 days.

  • Full MOT Fee: If you delay repairs beyond 10 days or go to another garage.

This makes it smart to repair and retest at the same garage.

MOT for Different Vehicles

The cost depends on the type of vehicle:

  • Cars – £54.85 max.

  • Motorcycles – £29.65 max.

  • Vans (up to 3,500kg) – £58.60 max.

  • Electric Cars – Same MOT fee as petrol/diesel (but no emissions check).

  • Classic Cars (40+ years old) – Exempt from MOTs, but must be kept roadworthy.

Factors That Can Affect MOT Cost

Even though the government sets maximum fees, the actual cost you pay can vary:

  • Location – London garages usually charge more than rural ones.

  • Garage Type – Independent garages often cheaper than chains.

  • Promotions – Seasonal sales and online booking discounts cut costs.

  • MOT + Service Bundles – Some garages give big discounts if you book both together.

How to Save Money on Your MOT

  • Book Online – Discounts often apply for online booking.

  • Use MOT + Service Packages – Combined deals are cheaper than paying separately.

  • Choose Independent Garages – They often undercut big brands.

  • Maintain Your Car – Check lights, tyres, and fluid levels to avoid failures and retests.

Is MOT Free with Car Insurance or Leasing?

  • Leasing Contracts – Some lease agreements include free MOTs after the first three years.

  • Insurance Packages – Premium insurance sometimes covers MOT costs.

  • New Cars – Cars under three years old don’t require an MOT.

MOT Fines for Not Having One

Driving without an MOT is risky and expensive:

  • Fine of up to £1,000.

  • Car insurance may be invalid.

  • The vehicle can be seized if unsafe.

👉 Always book before expiry, you can test up to 1 month early without losing the date.

So, how much does an MOT cost? In the UK, MOT tests range between £30 and £55, with discounts available at many garages. The government sets a maximum fee, but smart drivers save money through online deals, MOT + service bundles, and by choosing the right garage.

What is the average MOT price in 2025?

Most drivers pay £30–£50, depending on the garage and location.

Do you pay for MOT retests?

Not always. Retests are free at the same garage within 10 days.

Can I get a free MOT test?

Yes, sometimes included in leasing or insurance deals.

Is MOT more expensive for electric cars?

No, the MOT fee is the same. The only difference is no emissions test.

What happens if my car fails its MOT?

You must repair the faults. You can’t drive without a valid MOT, except to a garage for repairs.