Government Signals Expanded Role for MOT Mileage Data Under Proposed eVED System

The Government has confirmed that mileage data collected during MOT tests is expected to play a central role in the operation of its proposed electronic Vehicle Excise Duty (eVED) system, according to a recent parliamentary answer.

Responding to a written question from Conservative MP Ashley Fox, Exchequer Secretary Dan Tomlinson outlined how the Government intends to use mileage information already gathered through the MOT scheme to support the proposed taxation framework.

The exchange provides one of the clearest indications yet of how MOT mileage records could become increasingly important beyond their traditional role in vehicle safety and fraud prevention.

MOT Data at the Heart of the System

In his response, Tomlinson stated that:

“Mileage data from cars is currently collected at annual MOTs.”

He added that the Government intends to use this information to ensure that mileage declarations provided by motorists remain accurate and up to date.

The minister said that for vehicles already subject to annual MOT testing, there would “typically be no additional steps for checks”, suggesting the Government sees the existing MOT network as a ready-made infrastructure for mileage verification.

For the MOT sector, the statement reinforces the growing value of accurate mileage recording during vehicle inspections. Mileage histories have long been used to identify potential odometer fraud, but under the proposed eVED framework they could also play a direct role in future taxation administration.

Additional Checks Proposed for Newer Vehicles

One of the more significant revelations concerns vehicles that are not yet old enough to require an MOT.

Cars under three years old are currently exempt from annual MOT testing. However, the Government’s Budget 2025 consultation proposed that these vehicles could undergo additional mileage checks around their first and second anniversaries.

Tomlinson confirmed that ministers had proposed:

“an additional mileage check at an accredited provider around their first and second anniversary at no cost to the motorist”.

The Government is currently consulting on whether those additional checks should become mandatory.

While details remain limited, the proposal raises questions about who would carry out the inspections, how accreditation would work, and whether parts of the existing MOT network could eventually be involved.

Fleet Industry Concerns Remain

The parliamentary question specifically focused on the potential administrative burden for fleet operators, leasing companies and vehicle rental businesses.

Fox asked what assessment had been made of vehicle downtime, productivity losses and financial impacts associated with mileage reporting and reconciliation requirements under eVED.

In response, Tomlinson acknowledged that fleet and leasing operators may require bespoke arrangements. He said the DVLA is considering options to minimise administrative burdens, including systems similar to existing bulk Vehicle Excise Duty licensing arrangements.

The Government has also sought evidence from the sector on how the proposals could affect business operations.

Impact Assessment Still to Come

The Treasury has not yet published estimates for vehicle downtime, productivity losses or costs to the fleet sector.

Instead, ministers say they are continuing to analyse consultation responses before publishing a formal assessment.

Tomlinson confirmed that the Government intends to release a Tax Information and Impact Note (TIIN) alongside any future legislation, setting out the administrative impacts of the scheme.

What It Means for MOT Testers

Although eVED remains under consultation, the parliamentary answer highlights the increasing strategic importance of MOT mileage records.

For MOT testers and garage operators, accurate mileage capture could become even more critical if Government policy evolves to use MOT data as a key verification mechanism for vehicle taxation.

The response also raises the possibility that accredited mileage-check providers may be required for newer vehicles outside the traditional MOT cycle, potentially creating future opportunities for the automotive service sector if the proposals proceed.

For now, the Government says it is still reviewing consultation responses. However, the latest parliamentary answer suggests that the UK’s MOT infrastructure is likely to play a significant supporting role in any future mileage-based vehicle taxation system.