The DVSA said: “We know ghost MOTs account for nearly 80% of all fraudulent MOTs, making it a clear area for us to tackle.
“Knowing if a vehicle is where it should be at the time of test should reduce the number of MOTs carried out when the vehicle isn’t present, or isn’t the same vehicle as the details being entered into MTS.
“Potentially, both authorised examiners and DVSA will be able to see the images stored against the test record, and this will help all of us to crack down on fraud.
“It will enable us to focus our efforts on helping garages do the right thing, but also free up time to focus on those who are not and deal with them accordingly.”
The DVSA undertook a series of original trials to see how image-capturing software could work.
Officials had hoped to integrate this last year but chiefs admitted they had come across a few issues.
The DVSA stressed they had now simplified the system which has made it more safe and secure.
The new technology will see MOT testers take a photo of the vehicle in the testing bay after entering the number plate or VIN.
Images will then be saved against the vehicle record before mechanics can carry out the MOT test as normal.
The photos should include all of the front or back of a vehicle including a clearly visible registration number.
The DVSA has stressed it wants to trial its new image capture technology at garages across the UK with centres urged to apply.
The DVSA said it would then review the feedback and determine whether this technology is something that could be formally introduced.
