The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) has wrapped up the first phase of a brand-new initiative aimed at cracking down on fraudulent MOTs, commonly known as “ghost MOTs”. This trial is a big step forward in improving MOT accuracy, road safety, and vehicle compliance across the UK.

At Fleet Service GB (FSGB), we’re excited to see this progress. We’ve long championed transparency and better data across the automotive sector, from MOTs to vehicle condition. That’s why we’re proud to support this change alongside our own Eyes & Ears initiative, which promotes photo evidence of vehicle condition in our FSGB Garage Network.

What Is a “Ghost MOT” and Why Does It Matter?

A ghost MOT is when a vehicle gets a certificate without actually being present or tested. It’s a serious issue that puts unsafe cars on the road, misleads drivers, and undermines the whole MOT system.

To tackle this, DVSA launched a six-week nationwide trial asking garages to photograph each vehicle as it came in for its MOT. The idea? Simple, no photo, no proof the vehicle was actually tested.

Inside the DVSA’s Trial

How It Worked

• 170+ testers across 62 garages took part
• Photos were uploaded via the MOT Testing Service (MTS) using smartphones or tablets
• Over 13,000 images submitted in total

This included independent garages, chains, dealerships and local councils, a true cross-section of the sector.

Early Results

• Uploads hit 450–500 per day
• Top 10 garages had a 90.2% success rate in week one
• Feedback was largely positive, with many testers calling it “easy” or even “wonderful!”

Even when technical hiccups came up, like QR code issues or software bugs, they were fixed quickly, making the process smoother for everyone involved.

What About Test Times?

Some garages worried that adding photo uploads would slow them down. But the data says otherwise:

• First MOTs still averaged 40 minutes
• Retests increased slightly from 7 to 9 minutes, but DVSA is working on streamlining that

FSGB’s Eyes & Ears Initiative: Driving Accountability

Long before this DVSA trial, FSGB’s Eyes & Ears initiative has been encouraging garages in our FSGB Garage Network to take photos of every vehicle that enters the workshop.

These images help:

• Record pre-existing damage
• Check vehicle standards
• Improve trust with drivers and fleet managers

And now, it aligns perfectly with what DVSA is trying to achieve: real proof that every car gets a proper MOT.

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How FSGB Tracks MOTs with Authority to Drive

Through FSGB Driver Management, we also keep MOTs on the radar by asking drivers during our Authority to Drive registration when they last had an MOT. This helps fleet managers stay one step ahead and plan maintenance efficiently, no surprises, no gaps.

For individual drivers or fleet admins, you can always check MOT status online using this GOV.UK service: Check your vehicle’s MOT history here

What’s Next from DVSA?

DVSA’s moving full steam ahead. After collecting feedback, the second phase of the trial will roll out to more garages to test the system at scale.

They’re also looking to:

• Improve image recognition (like auto-detecting number plates)
• Refine guidance for better photo quality
• Reduce upload-related delays

FAQs About Ghost MOTs and FSGB

What is a ghost MOT?

A ghost MOT is when a vehicle is issued a valid MOT certificate without actually being tested. It’s fraudulent, unsafe, and illegal.

How does the DVSA’s photo trial help?

It ensures vehicles are physically present by requiring testers to upload a photo at the time of MOT or retest. This creates a digital footprint that can’t be faked.

What is FSGB’s Eyes & Ears initiative?

FSGB’s Eyes & Ears encourages garages in the FSGB Garage Network to photograph all vehicles on arrival. This helps document any damage, verify vehicle standards, and build trust with drivers.

What is FSGB Driver Management?

It’s our digital driver support system that helps fleets track compliance, training, maintenance, and documents, including MOTs.

What’s Authority to Drive?

It’s FSGB’s driver registration process. When a driver registers, they’re asked when their last MOT was, helping us plan and track when it’s due next.

How can I check when my vehicle’s MOT is due?

Use this simple GOV.UK tool to check your MOT history and due date: Check your MOT here

Final Thoughts

The DVSA’s image trial is a smart, simple move that’s already showing results. At FSGB, we’re proud to support these steps toward better compliance, safety, and trust in the MOT process.

Whether you’re a garage, fleet operator, or driver, make sure you’re part of the change.

Want to learn more about how Fleet Service GB helps your fleet stay compliant and safe? Contact us here.