It can cost anywhere from £10,995 to £34,995 to set up an MOT testing station, however, the prices differ substantially from a Class 1 & 2 MOT Bay for motorcycle MOT testing, to a Class 4 or Class 7 MOT Bays for testing Car, Vans or Commercial vehicles.
MOT testing stations play an essential role in ensuring the roadworthiness of vehicles in the UK. These kinds of garages are authorised by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to conduct thorough examinations to assess a vehicle’s compliance with safety and environmental standards.
If you’re considering venturing into this lucrative part of the motor industry, understanding the classes of vehicles, the equipment required, and all of the potential costs involved in setting up an MOT testing station is crucial before you start your new venture.
What are the different Classes of MOT Bays?
MOT bays are categorised into different classes based on the types of vehicles they are authorised to test. Each class has its own set of equipment requirements and costs, and the three main types of MOT Bay that cover the majority of vehicles in the UK are as follows:
Class 1 and 2 Bays
These MOT bays are designed for testing motorcycles but can also be used for a motorcycle and sidecar, with engine sizes up to 200cc. The basic equipment required for these bays includes:
The average cost of setting up a Class 1 or 2 MOT bay ranges from £10,995 to £13,995.
Class 4 Bays
These bays cater to a wider range of vehicles, including cars, caravans passenger vehicles, ambulances and up to 12-person vehicles with a design gross weight of up to 3,000 kg. The essential equipment required for Class 4 bays includes:
The average cost of setting up a Class 4 MOT bay ranges from £19,995 to £34,995 (with the lower range being a Class 4 MOT Pit Bay).
Class 7 Bays
The larger of the MOT bays are equipped to handle the bigger and heavier vehicles, including lorries, buses, and coaches.
If you have a Class 7 MOT bay, you can also work on Class 4 vehicles, thus making your MOT testing station capable of earning even more money from the wider range of vehicles that you can test, and as such the equipment required for Class 7 bays is very similar to that of the Class 4 MOT Bay, and includes:
- Heavy-duty MOT ramps
- Gas and smoke emissions testing equipment
- Headlight testers
- Roller brake tester or decelerometer
The average cost of setting up a Class 7 MOT bay ranges from £21,495 to £31,995 (with the lower range being a Class 7 MOT Pit Bay).
The VT01 Application Process
To establish your garage as an MOT testing station, you must first obtain authorisation from the DVSA. This involves submitting an application form VT01, which requires detailed information about your business, premises, equipment, and personnel, including who will become the Authorised Examiner (the person or business that runs it).
The DVSA will thoroughly assess your application and conduct an inspection of your premises to ensure compliance with their standards.
Where to get the VT01 Form
You can download the VT01 form from the gov.uk website publications section regarding the VT01 application process, or by clicking this VT01 Download Link.
If the process seems a little overwhelming, don’t worry, we have years of experience in measuring up and completing the VT01 forms for customers, and we can help ensure your application is passed the first time.
Essential Equipment for MOT Testing
Apart from the bay-specific equipment mentioned earlier, there are other essential items required for MOT testing:
- Computer, laptop or tablet
- Internet connection
- Printer
- MOT testing software
- Tools and workshop equipment
- Signage and safety equipment
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Proper lighting
- Ample ventilation
- Sufficient space for the MOT testing area
Other Garage Equipment you may need
To maximise the revenue your MOT Bay can make, as well as testing you may also offer car and vehicle servicing and repairs, as well as tyre changing services. With this in mind, some other garage equipment you may consider adding to your MOT Bay to offer everything your customer may need includes:
- Tyre Changer
- Wheel Balancer
- Air Compressor
- Play detectors / Shaker Plates
Streamlining the MOT Bay Setup Process with Concept Garage Equipment
Concept Garage Equipment, a leading provider of MOT testing equipment and services, offers comprehensive support to aspiring MOT testing station owners. Their expertise encompasses:
- Site surveys and measuring up
- Equipment selection and procurement
- Installation and MOT Tester training
- Ongoing maintenance and support
- Compliance guidance and assistance
With Concept Garage Equipment as your partner, you can navigate the complexities of setting up an MOT testing station with confidence, ensuring a smooth and successful transition into this very profitable industry.
Call us today on 0113 469 0572 or use the website contact form today, we are here to help.