Three driving changes are being introduced in August as Andy Burnham completes his first full month as Labour Prime Minister. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has confirmed the changes, which cover MOT tests, road safety measures and driving licences.
MOT photograph capture
From August 3, 2026, the DVSA will begin a nationwide rollout of a feature allowing MOT testers to capture and upload photographs at the point of testing. The move follows two successful trials involving 311 garages.
"Many reported that the feature was straightforward to use and that it had little or no impact on overall testing times," the DVSA said of the new feature. "The trials also helped us identify opportunities to improve the service. As a result, we were able to improve the photo upload process to improve performance, reliability and the overall user experience."
The feature lets testers photograph a vehicle using a smartphone, tablet or other compatible mobile device. Approximately 2,500 garages across Great Britain will gain access during this phase. Uploading a photograph provides extra evidence that the vehicle was at the garage at the time of the test. Photos are sent directly to the MOT testing service and are not stored on the device's camera roll or gallery.
Taking and uploading a photo remains optional. A tester can proceed without submitting a photo by selecting the most suitable reason within the service, and will not be prevented from recording the MOT test result if they are unable to take or upload a photograph.
Road safety strategy
Labour unveiled its new Road Safety Strategy earlier this year, launching five consultations at the beginning of the year. The government has responded to just one so far.
The Department for Transport has announced that 18 vehicle safety technologies will be made mandatory for mass-produced vehicles under Great Britain type approval. The consultations concluded in May, with the department saying it expected to provide a response within five months, placing the deadline in August.
Driving licence app
The Government Digital Service (GDS) recently announced work on a Chat feature for the GOV.UK App, where the digital driving licence would be held. In conjunction with the DVLA, the GDS confirmed that motorists will be able to access their driver and vehicle information directly through the GOV.UK App.
