New qualification for MOT testers

A new qualification for MOT testers and managers is being introduced to help improve the skills of those who work in the MOT testing industry.

Each year around 42 million car MOT tests are carried out. While the vast majority are conducted to the correct standard, errors can and have occurred. The new qualification and training regime is intended to improve standards and consistency across the industry.

The content of MOT training for 58,000 testers across the country has been regularly monitored and reviewed to reflect advances in technology and changes in vehicle design. However, the structure of the training has remained the same.

From September, all new testers will have to get the nationally-recognised qualification.

Transport Minister, Lord Ahmad said: “MOT testers do an excellent and essential job ensuring that vehicles are fit to be driven on our roads. “We want all workers to be proud of their profession and drivers to be sure they are getting the right test result. We are introducing this new qualification and training and assessment regime to further boost the reputation of the profession.”

Driver and Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA) chief executive, Gareth Llewellyn, said: “Checking your vehicle is safe to drive is one of our top priorities. Ensuring the quality of MOT testing will ensure customers can be confident their vehicle will be tested in a highly professional manner.

“The new qualification as well as the annual training and assessment will continue to build on the professional reputation of the MOT industry. It will help DVSA to regularly assess the standard of the industry and quickly address any problems that arise.

“By achieving this new qualification, garages or testers will enable their businesses to flourish, but where standards are not being met, DVSA has an obligation to protect the public by withdrawing authority to carry out MOT testing.”

This follows the introduction of the annual training and assessment in April 2016 for the 58,000 existing MOT testers. Under the old system, MOT testers had to complete two days of refresher training every five years, but now they will have to do three hours each year – and pass the assessment.

The DVSA has worked with the MOT industry and awarding organisations to develop the new, nationally recognised qualification.

Anyone who has the relevant technical qualification and at least 4 years’ experience in the motor trade can take this the qualification – either before or after they have employment with an MOT garage.

Applicants will have to successfully complete the qualification and pass a practical assessment before being authorised to test. The final assessment will be conducted by a DVSA examiner.

Once they start carrying out MOT tests, workers will need to pass an annual assessment to retain their authorisation to test.

DVSA sets the core topics for the annual assessments and these will focus on areas which testers are most likely to get wrong.

A new qualification has also been created for MOT Managers – again, ensuring that those responsible for delivering MOT services are equipped to deliver MOTs to the right standards.

To find more information on the qualification visit the Become an MOT tester page.