Drivers warned of illegal MOT practice with major risks

Motorists could be putting themselves and others at risk due to a dodgy and illegal MOT practice.

In the UK, all vehicles over three years old must pass an MOT test annually to ensure they meet safety and environmental standards.

Barring a few exceptions, it's unlawful to drive a vehicle without a valid MOT certificate obtained after passing the test. Typically, you'd take your motor to an authorised garage or mechanic for this assessment.

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However, some garages may lure you with a cheap MOT certificate without actually conducting the test in person. This fraudulent practice, known as a ghost MOT, accounts for approximately 80% of all fake MOT certificates, according to the DVSA.

Since the vehicle isn't physically inspected in a ghost MOT, neither the driver nor the mechanic can confirm its roadworthiness, potentially leading to serious accidents, reports the Daily Record

Proof needed for MOTs

To fight MOT fraud, the DVSA has implemented an updated strategy since 2023. A key part of this is requiring garages to photograph vehicles during the test, a measure that has undergone extensive trials.

Through these pilot tests, the DVSA can check data from the submitted images and cross-check it against the issued MOT certificate.

Garages might also be required to photograph the vehicle while it's in the testing bay. This image can then be used by the DVSA to verify that the vehicle was indeed tested in person.

Reporting fake or dodgy MOTs

If you believe a garage or MOT test centre has issued a fraudulent certificate without conducting a proper MOT, you can report them anonymously.

A garage could be flouting the rules if they've accepted a bribe, issued an MOT certificate for a vehicle they knew should have failed, or provided an MOT certificate for a vehicle that wasn't actually tested.

To report a garage or test centre, contact the DVSA Intelligence Unit at enquiries@dvsa. gov.uk or ring 0800 030 4103.

You're not required to provide any personal details when making a report.

If a garage or test centre is found guilty of MOT fraud, the DVSA can ban them from conducting any more tests. Furthermore, those who commit serious offences can face court charges, fines, and even imprisonment in certain cases.