How much is an MOT?

MOT fees are capped by law. A garage cannot charge more than the maximum set by the DVSA, though most charge less to win your business.

Maximum fees

Car (up to 8 seats): £54.85 maximum.
Motorcycle: £29.65 maximum.
Vans and larger vehicles have their own higher caps.

Many garages advertise MOTs for £30–£45, sometimes free with a service, because the test is a chance to win repair work.

Retests

If your vehicle fails, a partial retest is often free if you leave it at the garage and it is re-presented within ten working days. Take it away and bring it back later and a further fee may apply.

What the fee does — and doesn't — cover

The MOT checks that the vehicle meets the minimum road-safety and environmental standards on the day. It is not a mechanical warranty and does not cover engine, clutch or gearbox condition. Any repairs needed to pass are charged separately.

A very cheap MOT is fine — the test itself is identical everywhere. Just check whether repair labour rates are reasonable before agreeing to work.

You can run the free official check any time at gov.uk/check-mot-history.