Preventing 'Ghost MoT' Fraud

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has introduced a trial to combat 'ghost MoT' fraud, a practice where MoT testers issue pass certificates for vehicles that have not undergone testing. This fraudulent activity accounts for approximately 80% of all MoT fraud cases and poses a significant risk to road safety.

To tackle this issue, the DVSA has launched a trial that requires MoT testers to take photographs of vehicles during the testing process. These images will be uploaded to the official MoT website, providing a visual record of the vehicle's presence at the test station. The photos must include the entire vehicle in the test bay, with the number plate clearly visible, and must be taken at the time of the test.

The trial aims to reduce the number of 'ghost MoTs' by providing a clear record of the vehicle's presence during testing. This will enable the DVSA to focus its efforts on supporting garages that follow the rules while taking action against those that engage in fraudulent activities.