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As the number of new and used cars on our roads increase and more mechanics look to enter work across the country, it’s more important than ever to ensure that you have the necessary skills and qualifications to compete in the market. We’ve listed some of the main requirements to become a MOT tester below, along with our top tips for making sure you get the most out of your skills and experience during the automotive job search!
According to the latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), there were more new cars sold in 2023 than in 2022. This figure was around 1.9 million new cars sold in 2023, a 17.9% increase over the previous year.
As the automotive industry prepares to feel the knock-on effect of increased new car sales, there will be a higher availability of work for MOT testers, meaning higher salaries and added job security due to a higher frequency of vehicle inspection and servicing jobs.
How to become a MOT technician
1. Check if you’re eligible to become a MOT tester
If you are looking to become a MOT tester, the first thing you need to do is check if you’re eligible. All individuals must:
- Have a valid full UK driving licence for the type of vehicle you would like to test.
- Be a skilled mechanic with at least 4 years’ full-time employment servicing and repairing the type of vehicles you’re going to test.
- Have no unspent convictions for criminal offences connected with MOT testing of the motor trade, or involving acts of violence or intimidation.
- Be ‘of good repute’ – the Drive and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will decide this to make sure you’re suitable to be a MOT tester.
- Have an accepted Level 3 qualification or accreditation if you want to test class 3, 4, 5 or 7 vehicles.
For a full list of accepted qualifications, visit the official gov.uk website here.
2. Complete a MOT tester qualification course
Once you are eligible, the next step is to complete your MOT testing training that has been approved by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), such as the Level 2 MOT tester course offered by Autotech Training.
3. Pass your MOT demonstration test after you complete your MOT tester training
Once you have completed your MOT tester course, you will need to demonstrate that you have the necessary skills, knowledge and training to carry out MOT tests on your own.
More information on how to book one and what happens during a MOT demonstration test can be found here. Once you pass your test, you can then start MOT testing at an authorised testing station.
4. Complete your annual MOT training and assessment
All qualified MOT testers are required to complete their annual MOT tester training and assessment to remain an approved tester. This has to be completed between April and March every year. For instance, you can finish your MOT annual training and assessment in 2024, between April 2024 and March 2025. Otherwise, the DVSA will suspend your MOT tester licence.
Autotech Training delivers a wide range of MOT training courses through our approved training providers in four locations: Edinburgh, Glasgow, Nuneaton and Wolverhampton. The course providers that we are partnered with deliver the best training available, ensuring that you feel confident and go on to have a long and successful automotive career with your new-found knowledge! You can find out more about MOT training courses here.