When it comes to MOTs, some drivers get nervous about the prospect of having their vehicle checked over to ensure it is roadworthy and not a danger to themselves or other road users. Sometimes, these nerves can escalate into obtaining a ‘Ghost MOT’ which is an attempt to bypass the test altogether.
A Ghost MOT refers to the fraudulent production of an MOT certificate for a vehicle that has not actually undergone a proper test. This is not only illegal but also endangers other road users by suggesting the vehicle is safe when it might not be. This includes both the mechanical and physical condition of the vehicle as well as any illegal modifications that would fail a genuine test.
Some may think producing a fake MOT certificate is a minor offence but MOTs are critical in maintaining road safety. Supporting this is the fact that only 2% of road accidents in 2022 were caused by mechanical failure, which is an indicator of how effective MOTs are in keeping unsafe vehicles off the road. No one wants to be overtaken by a vehicle shedding parts or collapsing due to structural corrosion.
Creating a fake MOT certificate is a criminal offence and can lead to imprisonment and heavy fines, something that has already happened in the UK. Make no mistake, Ghost MOTs are a serious issue.
Within an MOT garage, there is a defined hierarchy with an Authorised Examiner (AE) at the top. The AE appoints and oversees MOT testers and even if not directly involved in the fraud, the AE is ultimately responsible for the quality of testing carried out. If fraudulent MOTs are being issued, the AE will be held accountable.
The AE is responsible for several key areas including managing premises and equipment, ensuring security, assuming liability for vehicle damage, disclosing criminal convictions to the DVSA and allowing general inspections.
The DVLA can impose severe penalties on MOT garages including cessation orders and 500 penalty points. If an AE accumulates 500 or more points they could face suspension from conducting MOTs for months, years or even permanently depending on the severity of the violations.
Points are not only given for fraud. Errors in judgment, missing failed components and split testing also contribute. The government has published a sanctions flowchart for testers and AEs which is worth reviewing if you’re unsure of your exposure.
AEs should routinely monitor testers to ensure compliance with DVSA guidelines. This might involve spot checks, reviewing completed MOTs or general oversight. If issues are identified the AE must act in accordance with DVSA procedures to correct and prevent future problems.
If you suspect a tester is issuing Ghost MOTs or there are other concerns with MOT procedures you should report the fraud via the government website. This can be done anonymously.
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The DVLA has been combating Ghost MOTs for some time and in 2023 they introduced a roadmap to address both fraudulent practices and genuine mistakes like recording an MOT against the wrong vehicle.
New measures include particulate matter testing, specialised EV MOT procedures and potentially incorporating Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) into tests.
In 2024 the DVLA trialled photo verification by capturing images of a vehicle’s number plate during testing. However this was not a strong enough deterrent. In 2025 the trials expanded to require full vehicle photographs clearly showing the registration plate, taken with a phone or tablet during the test. Webcams are not allowed and the MOT Testing System only accepts photos taken in real time.
This system is still in testing and the DVLA welcomes feedback. But garages should prepare as this is expected to become mandatory.
While aimed at preventing fraud these changes can also help AEs oversee testers and reduce their own liability. Alarmingly, Ghost MOTs account for 80% of MOT-related fraud which is a statistic the DVLA is eager to bring down.
If you have encountered issues with MOT testing in your business or suspect fraudulent activity give our legal team at Lawgistics a call. We can guide you through the steps you need to take. Remember our members benefit from software tools and expert advice to help manage compliance and safeguard their business.
