What the test fee covers
The maximum fee covers the test itself, not repairs, retests or any work needed to pass. A station may charge less than the maximum, and many do, so the maximum is a ceiling rather than a typical price.
No VAT is charged on the MOT test fee, even though most other garage work carries it.
Worked example
A car up to eight passenger seats has a maximum fee of 54.85. A garage quoting 60.00 is 5.15 above the legal maximum, while a quote of 45.00 is 9.85 inside it.
These figures are the published maxima for Great Britain. They are not a quote and they do not include any repair.
Maximum fees by class
Cars, motor caravans, dual purpose vehicles and goods vehicles up to 3,000kg have a maximum of 54.85. Motorcycles up to and over 200cc are both 29.65, and a motorcycle with a sidecar is 37.80.
Three-wheelers up to 450kg are 37.80, and heavier three-wheelers are 54.85. Minibuses with 9 to 12 passenger seats are 57.30, and larger classes have their own higher maxima.
When the first test is due
Most cars and motorcycles need their first MOT three years after first registration, and then annually. Taxis and ambulances are tested after one year.
Northern Ireland runs its own MOT scheme with different fees and booking arrangements. This page covers Great Britain only.
Limits of this calculator
It reports the statutory maximum and compares a quote with it. It does not know local prices, waiting times, retest charges or the cost of any repair, and it does not book a test.
For the cost of running the car between tests, use the mileage calculator.
To put the cost against the car's value, use the UK car value calculator.
Inputs for the MOT calculator
Vehicle class
Choose the class matching the vehicle, which sets the maximum fee that may be charged.
Fee you were quoted
The test fee a garage quoted, excluding repairs and any retest.
CALCULATOR QUESTIONS
MOT cost calculator UK questions
Can a garage charge more than the maximum?
No. The maximum fee is set by law in Great Britain. A higher figure should be questioned before you book.
Is VAT added to the MOT fee?
No. VAT is not charged on the test fee itself, though it applies to repairs.
Does the fee include repairs?
No. Repairs, parts and a retest are separate, and a retest at the same station within the stated period is often free.
Does this cover Northern Ireland?
No. Northern Ireland has a separate MOT scheme, run by its own agency, with different fees.