Yes there is a right way to take the photo during the MOT test, and it’s pretty straightforward.  During the MOT Test, the photo should show:  The vehicle on the ramp (during the under-body inspection stage),  With the registration plate visible,  And the whole vehicle in shot if possible.  The aim is to capture a clear visual record that the MOT Test is being done properly. You don’t need fancy camera gear, just a steady hand and a clear shot. Some testers have found that positioning the camera at the front corner of the ramp gets the best angle, even in tight spaces.    (Read More)

It’s a fair question but no, taking photos of vehicles on the ramp during the MOT test is not about pointing fingers.  The photo requirement is part of DVSA’s effort to reduce fraud and error across the MOT Test system. Sadly, there have been cases where MOT Tests were recorded for vehicles that never turned up or where the wrong car was tested entirely.  Taking a photo during the MOT Test helps prove the vehicle was genuinely there. For honest MOT Testers (which is most of us), it’s a simple way to show the job’s being done properly, and to protect your licence, your business, and your reputation.  (Read More)

It might feel that MOT ramp photography is a waste of time at first but it’s actually about making the MOT Test more secure, not more stressful.  The photo is simply proof that the vehicle was physically present and being properly inspected. It supports the MOT Tester, the garage, and the system as a whole. In fact, garages involved in the DVSA trial have said that once it becomes part of your MOT Test routine, it only takes a few extra seconds.  You shouldn’t notice it slowing things down once you get into the swing of things. In return, you’re helping protect the reputation of MOT Testers who take pride in doing things right.  (Read More)

If the DVSA finds minor non-compliances, there’s no need to panic. The threshold for disciplinary points has been raised from 30 to 40 points, which means small issues can often be resolved with advice, training, or support rather than formal disciplinary action. That said, it’s still crucial to have solid systems in place for things like quality control and staff management – they’ll still be looking at your overall set-up and whether you’re running your site in line with the MOT Guide. (Read More)

Not anymore! DVSA site visits are no longer needed in some instances. If your MOT testing station has a solid track record with the DVSA, you might be offered a VTS Self-Assessment instead of a physical site visit. That means no phone interviews or inspectors arriving on-site. Instead, the AEDM (Authorised Examiner Designated Manager) will receive a form by email to complete and return within 14 days. It’s a great incentive to stay compliant – and a much less disruptive process! (Read More)

A DVSA site audit is a review of your MOT testing station to ensure you’re meeting all the required compliance standards. The good news is that as of April 2025, the process has been streamlined. Rather than diving deep into every part of your operation, DVSA now focuses on key compliance checks. They’ll look at things like whether the authorised entity is still running the site whether your equipment is in good working order if vehicles being tested are actually on-site. They’ll also reinspect a recently tested vehicle to make sure assessments are being carried out properly. It’s quicker, less disruptive, and gives the DVSA more time to focus on helping sites that may be struggling. (Read More)

As an Authorised Examiner, your responsibility for MOT Tester Annual Training & Assessment is to ensure that:   All your testers have recorded their training on their MTS profile.  Testers have kept records of training for the last five years.  They have taken and passed the annual assessment.  Their assessment results are uploaded to their MTS profile.  If your testers don’t comply, both they and your business could face suspension. That’s why it’s crucial to have a process in place to regularly check the status of your team’s annual training and assessments.  (Read More)

Yes! Passing the MOT Tester annual assessment isn’t enough—you must upload proof of your training and your assessment results to your MOT Testing Service (MTS) profile by 31st March. If you don’t, your testing status will still be suspended.    You’re also required to keep a record of all your training for the past five years. This is your responsibility as an MOT Tester.  (Read More)

If you miss the 31st March deadline for the MOT Tester Annual Training and Assessment, your MOT Tester status will be suspended—meaning you won’t be able to carry out MOT tests. To regain your testing privileges, you’ll need to:    Complete the MOT Annual Training for the current year (so if you miss the 31st March 2025 deadline, you’ll need to complete the 25/26 training year).  Pass the annual assessment for the current year.  Request and pass an MOT demonstration test conducted by the DVSA.   Until all three steps are completed, you’ll remain suspended—so it’s best to get your assessment done in good time!  (Read More)

The IMI Level 3 MOT Test Centre Management course requires a minimum of 16 hours Guided Learning time.  On completion of the course, you’ll need to take an, externally set and marked, online assessment.  The assessment consists of 35 questions and you’ll have 75 minutes to complete it. If you successfully pass the assessment, you’ll be awarded the IMI Level 3 Award in MOT Test Centre Management (Read More)

The  IMI Level 3 MOT Test Centre Management course offers a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills tailored to the needs of an MOT test centre manager. You’ll cover everything from legal compliance and administrative duties to customer service, staff supervision, and quality control systems. By the end of the course, you’ll be fully prepared to handle the responsibilities of running a compliant and efficient MOT testing station. (Read More)

The IMI Level 3 MOT Test Centre Management course is designed for individuals who are currently working in or looking to step into a management role within an MOT testing station. Whether you’re an experienced MOT Tester looking to move up the ladder or someone with a background in the motor repair industry, this course provides the essential knowledge and skills needed to manage an MOT test centre effectively. (Read More)

If you don’t complete your MOT annual tester training by the 31st of March, you risk facing penalties from the DVSA. Your site could be flagged as needing improvement, and you may even be suspended from MOT testing until the training is completed and recorded. It’s essential to finish it early to avoid last-minute stress and potential issues with compliance. (Read More)

The MOT Guide states that MOT Testing Station Quality Control (QC) checks: “should be carried out by a person who holds a Level 2 qualification in MOT Testing or equivalent for the appropriate class and comply with the requirements for annual training and assessments. They may be designated from the list of testers at the site or use a Third Party” (Read More)

To record an MOT Testing Station Quality Control (QC) check, a VT29 should be completed with notes and comments regarding what the QC saw/discussed with the tester. There should also be a direct reference to the Test Quality Information (TQI) report and/or the Test Log (TL) report on every check. (Read More)

In relation to how often the MOT Testing Station Quality Control (QC) checks should be carried out, the MOT Guide states: The frequency of checks may typically be expected to be 1 per tester every 2 months. However, this is based on the average garage throughput of 2 to 3 tests per day for experienced testers – so should be varied to reflect the volume of tests done or any other special circumstances – such as the experience of testers. For example, if a tester is inexperienced or doing twice the average of 2 to 3 tests per day you should consider increasing the checks to once a month. We would strongly recommend carrying QC checks for all testers on a monthly basis. (Read More)

Mistakes can be corrected but the MOT Tester must follow the guidance laid down by the DVSA in The MOT Guide Section H.  Unjustified changes could constitute fraud, dishonesty or gross negligence in the MOT testing process and you can be given 500 points which means cessation. (Read More)

No – you must not record a pass or fail MOT test result unless you have personally taken an active part in the examination of the vehicle.  If you do it would come under constitute fraud, dishonesty or gross negligence in the MOT testing process and you can be given 500 points which means cessation. (Read More)

No – all equipment must be calibrated in accordance with the DVSA’s requirements and failure to do so will prevent the testing of any vehicle that requires the use of that item of test equipment. (Read More)

Print the Special Notice and ask testers to sign that they have read and more importantly, understood the content. Where appropriate, discuss with the Special Notice with the MOT Testing team and talk about how they are going to implement it. (Read More)

You need to make a manual record that shows the emissions limits were tested and met but the DSM couldn’t register the reading.  Be sure to include the following information in the record and keep it for 3 months:   test station number tester’s name date and time test number vehicle type vehicle registration number that the vehicle passed the emissions test (Read More)

Failing to notify the DVSA of changes, meaning that the information they hold about your company is incorrect, could result in a 500 point penalty – enough for a temporary cessation from testing! (Read More)

If the company is continuing to operate under the same company number and registration, you can continue to operate as an MOT Testing centre but you MUST notify the DVSA of the changes using the  VT01 form. (Read More)

Yes – the DVSA must be notified of any convictions relating to MOT Testers as per the guidance in the MOT Testing Guide: Appendix 7 convictions and repute.  Details should be emailed to MOTadministration@dvsa.gov.uk (Read More)

To conduct a quality assurance check, either closely observe a full MOT test being carried out or re-check a vehicle just before the MOT tester signs off. Whilst making your observations you should make notes on the VT29 and then discuss these notes with the tester at the end. Agree any actions that may be required and both parties to sign off. (Read More)