MOT Testers to Capture Vehicle Photographs in new anti-fraud measure

In a bid to enhance the integrity of the MOT testing process, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has introduced a new requirement for testers to photograph vehicles during their assessments.

The DVSA has announced a significant update to the MOT testing procedure aimed at reducing fraudulent activities and ensuring that vehicles undergo proper evaluations. Testers are now mandated to capture images of the entire vehicle within the testing bay after entering the vehicle's registration number or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the system. This initiative seeks to prevent 'ghost MOTs', where certifications are issued without the vehicle being physically present.

Chris Price, DVS's Head of MOT Policy, emphasised the importance of this development: "We want to create a level playing field where high-quality testing is the standard. Capturing images at the time of the test will help prevent fraud while ensuring MOTs are conducted correctly."

The implementation process is designed to be straightforward. After inputting the vehicle's details, testers will be prompted to take a photograph using a smartphone or tablet. The image, which must be captured in real-time, will then be directly uploaded to the MOT Testing Service (MTS). Pre-stored images or those taken outside the testing environment will not be accepted, ensuring the authenticity of each record.

This measure addresses a significant concern within the MOT system. According to the DVSA, nearly 80% of fraudulent MOTs involve vehicles that have been certified without undergoing a proper test. By requiring photographic evidence of the vehicle in the testing bay, the agency aims to drastically reduce such occurrences and uphold the credibility of the MOT process.

The DVSA is currently seeking participation from various Vehicle Testing Stations (VTS) to trial this new feature. The initial phase is set for a late February to early March rollout, allowing the agency to gather feedback and ensure the system functions effectively across different testing environments. Testers interested in participating are encouraged to contact the DVSA for further details.

In addition to the photographic requirement, the DVSA is reinforcing cybersecurity measures for the MTS platform. Following instances of compromised tester accounts due to weak passwords and phishing scams, the agency advises testers to adopt strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Remaining vigilant against phishing attempts is also crucial to maintaining the systems security.

This initiative reflects the DVSA's commitment to maintaining high standards within the MOT testing framework, ensuring that all vehicles on UK roads meet the necessary safety and environmental requirements.