As more electric and hybrid vehicles make their way into MOT bays across the UK, many testers are finding themselves wondering where they can find the official EV and Hybrid MOT Guidance .
A quick look through the MOT Testing Guide or Inspection Manuals doesn’t offer much detail, just the odd reference to high-voltage systems or battery isolation.
So, if you’ve been left scratching your head trying to find out how to approach an EV or hybrid safely and correctly, you’re not alone. The manuals are light on specifics.
However, the DVSA has produced a dedicated document called “Hybrid, Electric and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Systems: Guidance for MOT Testers”. It’s part of this year’s Annual MOT Training, and it’s the go-to resource when the manuals don’t tell you what you need to know.
What the EV and Hybrid MOT Guidance Covers
This DVSA publication focuses on helping MOT testers understand the basics of alternative fuel vehicle systems and, most importantly, how to stay safe when working around them.
It applies to:
- Hybrid vehicles (petrol/electric and diesel/electric)
- Fully electric vehicles
- Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
Rather than detailing MOT test procedures, the guidance provides essential safety and awareness information, including:
- How to identify whether a vehicle is hybrid, electric or hydrogen-powered
- Safe working practices and visual checks for high-voltage components
- What ignition and “ready” modes mean on these vehicles
- When it’s necessary (and safe) to have the ignition or engine on during tests
- How to manage risks and what to do if high-voltage components appear damaged
It also makes clear that you should never dismantle or interfere with high-voltage systems, and that testers don’t need additional training to carry out MOT tests on these vehicles but reiterates that repairs to high-voltage systems must only be done by those with specific training.
Why It Matters
Electric and hybrid technology is no longer a niche area. With more manufacturers moving towards electric power, it’s vital that MOT testers stay informed and confident when inspecting these vehicles.
The MOT Manual might not contain all the answers when it comes to EVs, hybrids, or hydrogen fuel cell systems – and that’s fine. The information simply lives elsewhere, and the DVSA EV and Hybrid MOT guidance fills those gaps perfectly.
Where to Find It
If you ever find yourself unsure, click on this link or head straight to GOV.UK and search for:
Hybrid, Electric and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Systems: Guidance for MOT Testers
You can view it online or download it for easy reference. It’s clear, practical, and written specifically for MOT testers.
It’s a short but essential read that covers everything from identifying EVs and hybrids, to safely carrying out MOT tests and understanding high-voltage risks.
Staying up to date isn’t just good practice, it’s an essential part of keeping yourself, your colleagues, and your customers safe.
How The MOT Group Can Help
At The MOT Group, we’re here to support testers and AE managers in staying compliant, confident, and up to date. Our training support and resources help you stay on top of annual training requirements and industry updates, including emerging technologies like EVs and hybrids.
If you’d like guidance, refresher training, or help preparing your team for this year’s annual assessment, get in touch with the MOT Group team. We’ll make sure you’ve got everything you need to stay current, stick to the DVSA’s rules, and carry out your role safely and effectively.