If you’ve always wanted to become an MOT tester but haven’t got the necessary paper qualifications, the Vehicle Technician Accredited Assessment (VTAA), also known as Light Vehicle Inspection (LVI), could be just the solution you’re looking for.
Having an automotive technician accreditation, or relevant Level 3 qualification, is part of the eligibility requirements, ensuring that candidates possess recognised qualifications necessary for performing MOT tests.
This course is designed for skilled technicians who already have the knowledge and experience but need a formal accreditation to take their career to the next level and become an MOT tester.
What is the VTAA?
The VTAA is a two-day course aimed at technicians already involved in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of light vehicles. It gives a recognised qualification equivalent to a Level 3 standard, enabling technicians to meet the requirements for becoming an MOT tester for class 3, 4, 5, or 7 vehicles. The VTAA is equivalent to qualifications such as ‘motor vehicle craft studies’ and ‘motor vehicle technician’s certificate’.
Whether you’ve never attended formal training, misplaced your qualifications, or are a skilled technician who has relocated to the UK, the VTAA offers an accessible pathway to MOT tester certification.
What Does the VTAA Course Involve?
The VTAA combines classroom learning and hands-on workshop assessments. To complete the MOT Tester course successfully, you must complete 5 ten minute online multiple-choice assessments and 16 practical assessments covering:
- Brakes
- Suspension and Steering
- Wheels and Tyres
- Emissions
- Electrical systems
These assessments are designed to validate your competence and provide proof of your expertise in vehicle inspection and maintenance to enable you to become an MOT Tester.
Who is the VTAA For?
This course is ideal for:
- Technicians who want to become MOT testers and perform the MOT testing service but do not hold a formal Level 3 qualification and haven’t already done the MOT testing course.
- Candidates with National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) are also eligible for the VTAA.
- Skilled mechanics who have gained significant experience in the industry but haven’t had the opportunity for formal education.
- Individuals who have lost their qualification documents.
- Technicians from overseas who’ve moved to the UK and need an accredited qualification to practice.
The VTAA is a lifetime achievement, meaning that successful candidates will be considered equivalent to those with traditional Level 3 qualifications.
Eligibility Requirements for the VTAA?
To enrol in the VTAA and become an MOT tester at an authorised testing station you must meet the following criteria as outlined by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency:
- Have at least 4 years of full-time employment in the vehicle maintenance, and repair of the relevant vehicle classes, for instance as a skilled mechanic, light vehicle inspection technician, or a light vehicle diagnostic technician.
- Hold a current and full UK driving licence for the vehicle classes you intend to test.
- Pass a Basic DBS Check (Disclosure and Barring Service) if you have criminal offences you may want to check these are spent.
- Be deemed ‘of good repute’ to meet DVSA standards.
Why choose the VTAA qualification?
The VTAA is more than just an automotive qualification, it bridges the gap for experienced vehicle mechanics, and gives them an accepted qualification offering them the recognition they deserve and opening doors to new opportunities in the automotive industry as an MOT tester. The VTAA qualification allows you to become an MOT tester with recognised professional status. With this accreditation, you’ll be equipped to take on MOT tester responsibilities and offer an MOT testing service with confidence.
What’s the next step for the VTAA qualification?
Don’t let the lack of a paper qualification hold you back from achieving your goals. The VTAA is your chance to validate your skills and gain the credentials needed to become an MOT tester. Candidates will need to complete the MOT annual assessment to maintain their qualification. Just get in touch to sign up for the VTAA course and start your journey towards a rewarding career in vehicle inspection and testing, or contact us for more info on this course as well as MOT annual training and other qualifications! (karena@themotgroup.co.uk)