New MOT Regulations Are Here: The UK has rolled out major MOT regulation changes in 2025, marking one of the most significant updates in recent years. These changes, implemented by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), aim to increase safety, improve transparency, and reduce fraud in the vehicle testing process. Whether you’re a driver, garage owner, or MOT tester, staying on top of these changes is essential—not just for compliance, but for contributing to safer roads and more reliable testing standards.
New MOT Regulations Are Here
The new MOT regulations for 2025 represent a pivotal step toward safer roads, cleaner air, and a more trustworthy vehicle testing system. Whether you’re a car owner preparing for your next test or a professional tester ensuring compliance, these changes are meant to support—not punish—safe practices and high standards. Stay updated, maintain your vehicle regularly, and always use official sources when booking or verifying your MOT.
| Change | Description | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| Photographic Evidence Requirement | MOT testers must take photos during tests to confirm vehicle presence | Early 2025 (Trial phase) |
| Updated Inspection Criteria | Stricter checks for brakes, seatbelts, wipers, and suspension | December 2024 |
| Classic Car MOT Review | Consultation on reinstating MOTs for cars over 40 years old | Under review |
| Disciplinary Points Update | Threshold raised from 30 to 40 for action; focus on guidance | April 2025 |
| Cybersecurity Focus | Push for secure tester logins and data protection | Ongoing |
Why These Changes Matter?
The UK conducts over 30 million MOT tests each year. But a small number of fraudulent certificates—so-called “ghost MOTs”—have raised concerns about the system’s integrity. These reforms are the government’s response to tackle that head-on. Moreover, the shift toward digital records, photographic proof, and enhanced inspection rules is part of a wider plan to modernize vehicle compliance, reduce road traffic incidents, and enhance public trust in the MOT system.
What’s in the 2025 New MOT Regulations?
1. Mandatory Photographic Evidence
To prevent fraud and verify that the vehicle being tested is actually on-site, testers must now take a photograph of the vehicle in the testing bay—with a clear view of the number plate.
How it works:
- Photo must be taken in real time using the DVSA-approved device.
- Image is uploaded and linked to the vehicle’s MOT record.
- Stored securely and accessible by authorized personnel.
This combats fraudulent certificates and ensures accountability across testing centers.
2. Updated Vehicle Inspection Manual
The MOT Inspection Manual has undergone substantial updates, including new fail criteria. Among the updates:
- Braking system failures: Any missing or loose locking devices now cause an automatic failure.
- Seatbelt rules clarified: A belt with a cut or tear longer than a prescribed size is a failure.
- Wiper functionality: Wipers must start and stop properly. Faulty automation is no longer acceptable.
- Suspension scrutiny: More rigorous checks on component wear and movement.
These changes are part of an effort to align MOT checks with real-world safety hazards and new technologies.
3. Cybersecurity and Fraud Prevention
MOT testers are now strongly encouraged—and may soon be required—to:
- Use two-factor authentication for logging into the MOT Testing Service.
- Avoid password reuse across personal and work-related accounts.
- Complete training on secure data practices.
Following a string of account breaches and misuse, these cybersecurity efforts protect against internal and external manipulation of MOT records.
What’s Being Considered for the Future?
Classic Car Testing May Return
Currently, vehicles over 40 years old are exempt from MOT testing if they haven’t undergone significant modifications. But after a public consultation, there’s increasing support for bringing back annual or biannual safety checks for these vehicles.
The move is still under review, but owners of classic or vintage cars should prepare for possible changes.
Expansion of Digital Test Records
The DVSA is also exploring the use of digital-only test records, reducing paperwork and improving accessibility for owners, garages, and enforcement.
Practical Advice for Drivers
How to Prepare for Your MOT in 2025
- Check the DVSA Website: Always use the official MOT checker to confirm your vehicle’s test status and history.
- Inspect Key Components: Before your MOT, check your seatbelts, wipers, and brakes for visible wear or faults.
- Book with a Reputable Garage: Ensure your test center is DVSA-approved. Look for evidence of compliance with new photographic requirements.
- Watch for Scams: With new tech, comes new fraud. Ignore offers for digital certificates from third parties.
Practical Advice for MOT Testers and Garage Owners
- Stay compliant with new rules: All testing staff should be trained on how to take and upload photographs as required.
- Reassess your cybersecurity practices: Secure passwords, use separate accounts, and enable multi-factor authentication.
- Prepare for audits: DVSA is increasing its spot-checks and analysis of test data for irregularities.
- Update customer guidance: Inform customers about new procedures (like taking photos) to avoid misunderstandings.
MOT Test Guide: How to Pass and Avoid Common Mistakes
Frequently Asked Questions About New MOT Regulations Are Here
Q: Do I need to do anything differently for my 2025 MOT?
Yes. Make sure your vehicle meets the new inspection standards—especially for wipers, brakes, and seatbelts.
Q: Will my MOT take longer now that photos are required?
Not significantly. The photo process adds about 1–2 minutes and is already integrated into the test workflow.
Q: Are electric vehicles (EVs) affected by these changes?
Yes. EVs still require MOT testing after 3 years. Braking systems and suspension will be examined with the same scrutiny.
Q: Are classic cars now required to take an MOT?
Not yet. But changes are under review. It’s best to keep your classic car in roadworthy condition regardless of current exemptions.
Q: How do I report an MOT testing fraud?
You can report anonymously through the DVSA fraud reporting service.
