An MOT is a legal requirement for most vehicles over three years old in the UK. In this guide, we break down the official MOT price, average garage fees, retest rules, and how to save money in 2025.
🔗 Check Your MOT Status (Official Links)
Use these official GOV.UK tools:
✔ Check MOT Status (Expiry Date):
https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-status
✔ Check Full MOT History (Fails, Advisories, Passes):
https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-history
✔ Book an MOT (GOV.UK Guidance):
https://www.gov.uk/getting-an-mot
Add these as clickable links in your article for better UX and SEO.
✔️ Official Maximum MOT Fees (2025)
The UK Government sets the maximum MOT price a garage can charge.
| Vehicle Type | Official Max MOT Fee | Typical Garage Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Cars (Class 4) | £54.85 | £30 – £45 |
| Motorcycles | £29.65 | £20 – £29 |
| Vans (Class 7) | £58.60 | £45 – £55 |
| 3-Wheel Vehicles | £37.80 | £25 – £35 |
Most garages offer MOTs for less than the official maximum due to competition.
🏷️ Average MOT Price in 2025
Most UK drivers pay:
⭐ £30 – £45 for a standard MOT
Typical prices from common garages:
- Halfords: £34.99
- Kwik Fit: £39.99
- National Tyres: £29.99 (promotions)
- Local garages: £30–£40
🔄 MOT Retest Fees (2025)
✔ Free Retest if:
- Repairs are done at the same garage
- Vehicle stays on-site
- Retest happens within 10 working days
✔ Partial Retest Fee
If you take the car away and return:
£10 – £20
(depends on the garage)
❗ Why MOT Prices Vary
- Location (London often higher)
- Chain garage vs local garage
- Promotions/seasonal discounts
- Demand (Jan–March usually cheapest)
🛠️ Common MOT Failures & Average Repair Costs
| Fault | Typical Repair Cost |
|---|---|
| Tyres below legal limit | £50 – £120 each |
| Brake pads worn | £80 – £150 |
| Headlight alignment | £10 – £25 |
| Windscreen chips/cracks | £40 – £250 |
| Exhaust issues | £100 – £300 |
📅 When Does a Car Need an MOT?
- Every 12 months once the car is 3 years old
- You can test up to 30 days early
- The expiry date stays the same
👉 Check your MOT expiry here:
💡 Tips to Save Money on Your MOT
- Compare garage prices online
- Book in January–March (cheapest months)
- Replace bulbs and wipers before the test
- Use garages offering free retests
- Avoid garages known for upselling unnecessary repairs
❓ FAQs
How long does an MOT take?
Usually 30–45 minutes.
Can I drive without an MOT?
No — fines up to £1,000, and insurance may be invalid.
How early can I book?
Up to 30 days before MOT expiry.
Do I need to service my car before MOT?
Not required, but recommended to avoid fails.
📌 Conclusion
In 2025, the average MOT test cost in the UK is £30–£45, though the government maximum fee is £54.85. Shopping around and preparing your car beforehand can save you money.