What Is Required To Become An MOT Tester?

Last Updated on March 13, 2022

Are you wondering what it takes to become an MOT tester? Non-surprisingly, there are stringent requirements in place when it comes to becoming a VOSA MOT tester…

When you consider how important this service is, it’s super crucial that it is carried out correctly. Otherwise, you could be putting people’s safety at risk.

This can be a great way of adding another service to your company’s books! If you carry out alloy wheel refurb, for example, you may want to expand further with MOT services.

Or if you’re simply looking to get your car serviced, it really helps to know what the minimum requirements are from the testing garage. Then you can be sure that the person you choose is able to fulfil this. After all, car safety is one area you should never be cutting corners.

What do you need to be an MOT tester?

Training course – The first thing you need to do is make sure you sign up for a training course. It must be an approved course if you are to get the accreditation you require. Thus, read reviews and do your research before making your decision.
Good repute – You need to show that you are of good repute if you are to become an MOT tester.
Experience – You cannot simply take an MOT training course whenever you feel like it. You need to be a skilled mechanic and you must have a minimum of four years of full time experience working on vehicle servicing and repairs.
UK driving licence – You need to have a full and current UK driving licence, and it must be for the vehicles you want to test.
DVSA exam – You will need to pass the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) exam if you want to become an MOT tester for vehicles that are either class 3, 4, 5 or 7. There are alternative qualifications that may make you eligible to test these vehicles, so it may be worth checking this out.
No criminal offences – Last but not least, you must not have any unspent criminal offences that involve acts of violence or are connected with the motor trade or testing scheme.

Hopefully, this post has given you a better understanding of what is required of you if you are to achieve the status of a qualified VOSA MOT tester.

You will know whether you fit the bill right now, or whether there are steps you need to take before you can go on a training course.

Please note, that once you achieve your accreditation, you will need to take a refresher course every five years. If you fail to do this, you will be suspended from MOT testing.