DVSA expands photographic MOT evidence trial to 244 garages

Following the first stage of the trial, the new anti-fraud measures requiring MOT testers to take photographs of vehicles are being expanded

DVSA expands photographic MOT evidence trial to 244 garages
Image: Bigstock.

The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) has announced an expansion of a major anti-fraud measure in the MOT scheme: requiring testers to take photographs of vehicles undergoing inspection. These images are uploaded to the digital MOT Testing Service and aim to prevent ‘ghost MOTs,’ where a certificate is issued without the vehicle being inspected.

A spokesperson for the DVSA explained the necessity of the measure: “While only a small number of testers and garages are involved in MOT fraud, it does happen and puts our roads at risk. DVSA wants to create a level playing field for all and we’ve taken action, helping to reassure drivers that their vehicle’s MOT will be conducted to the correct standard.”

The initial trial involved 170 MOT testers across 62 garages using mobile phones or tablets to capture images. Following its success, the second phase will see 244 garages participating. The DVSA stated that the trial “has shown real promise so far and we’re excited to roll it out further.”

The photographs will be used to inform intelligence-led enforcement activities, which, if proven, can lead to testers and garages being suspended or removed from the scheme, or even prosecution. The department stressed that driving without a valid MOT is “illegal and dangerous.”

Motorists are not required to be notified when images are captured as this is part of the standard process of verifying and recording a vehicle’s identity. However, all authorised testing stations taking part in the trial are required to display an updated VT9A fees and appeal poster which contains information about images being taken.

The DVSA confirmed that drivers cannot request copies or the deletion of images, but all images are automatically deleted after a retention period of 13 months, unless retained as evidence.

Source: DVSA

7 Comments

  1. Simply laughable that DVSA think this “innovative” idea will stop this trade. I was always told, you can make anything fool proof, fools are far too clever. and will find a work around.

    Reply
  2. So more work and time, but the test fee stays the same.

    Reply
  3. So more work and time, but the test fee remains the same

    Reply
  4. neil agree with you
    also we have banned phones etc from our workshop due to staff using them for non work activities and mistakes being made
    also who is going to pay for the extra work reqd ???

    Reply
    • I think I have a fair idea who will end up paying for it!
      It’s the same old story, a small percentage of people cheat the system, so everyone else has to jump through hoops so DVSA can say they’ve cured the problem.
      It just goes on and on, more and more requirements, more and more time and expenditure to actually carry out an MOT and still no mandatory test fee.
      I think they are heading towards removing testing from garages altogether, and bringing in something along the lines of testing being done by the local council authority.

      Reply
    • Have a company phone or tablet for mots

      Reply
  5. It takes seconds and causes me no delay

    Reply

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