MOT service charge consultation – Time to engage

The Department for Transport’s newly launched consultation on increasing the maximum service charges (commonly referred to as "pit fees") for HGV, bus, and trailer MOTs is a significant moment for our industry. It’s the first proposed change to these charges since 2010, and it’s already sparking debate across the sector.

At the RHA, we believe it’s vital to consider all perspectives, balancing the sustainability of Authorised Testing Facilities (ATFs) with the financial pressures faced by operators.

Why some support raising the service charge

Inflation adjustment

The current cap has remained unchanged since 2010. Had it kept pace with inflation, the HGV service charge would now be around £85, with PSV service charges at around £108. The government’s proposal to raise these to £70 and £90 respectively is still below that level, representing a pragmatic step that acknowledges rising costs without fully passing them on to operators.

Sustainability of ATFs

ATFs are privately owned and must cover their own costs for premises, equipment, and staffing. With rising energy prices, rent, and salaries, many ATFs are struggling to remain viable. The proposed increase—£15 for HGVs, £10 for trailers, and £20 for buses and coaches—could help ensure these facilities can continue to operate and invest in their infrastructure.

Encouraging investment and capacity

A modest increase in the cap could encourage new ATFs to enter the market, particularly in underserved areas. This would improve access to testing and reduce bottlenecks. It also allows existing ATFs to invest in modern equipment, such as the recently approved load simulating brake testers.

Why others are cautious about raising the service charge

Cost burden on operators

Even a 9–11% increase in total test costs (including the DVSA statutory fee) could be significant for operators already facing high fuel, insurance, and compliance costs. For smaller hauliers, every additional pound matters.

Impact on smaller operators

Smaller firms operating with narrow profit margins are likely to feel the effects more acutely. Any rise in costs may lead them to increase customer rates, potentially undermining their competitiveness in the market.

Risk of price variations

While the cap sets a maximum, ATFs are free to charge less, or nothing at all, especially when testing their own fleets. However, in areas with limited ATF availability, operators may have no choice but to pay the full amount, potentially creating regional disparities.

The future of testing

Adapting to new technologies and testing requirements

The vehicle testing landscape is evolving rapidly. With the rise of electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and digital diagnostics, ATFs must adapt.

Futureproofing the network

The proposed fee increase is intended to help ATFs plan for these future needs. Ensuring that testing infrastructure keeps pace with vehicle technology is essential for maintaining road safety and supporting the UK’s transition to cleaner transport.

What the consultation proposes

The DVSA is proposing the following new maximum service charges:

Vehicle Type	Current Max Fee	Proposed Max Fee	Inflation-Adjusted Equivalent	Statutory Test Fee	Max % Increase in Total Cost
HGV	£55	£70 (+15)	£85	£114	9%
Trailer	£40	£50 (+10)	£62	£54	11%
Bus/Coach	£70	£90 (+20)	£108	£116	11%

The consultation runs until 21 November 2025, and responses can be submitted via the official GOV.UK portal.

Moving forward

The RHA welcomes this consultation and urges all stakeholders, ATFs, operators, and trade bodies to engage constructively. We support a balanced approach that ensures:

• Fairness for operators

• Financial sustainability for ATFs

• A future-ready testing network

We also encourage the DVSA to commit to regular reviews of service charges to avoid another prolonged freeze that risks undermining the system.