Can I Become an MOT Tester Without Being a Mechanic?

Understanding DVSA requirements and your pathway to MOT testing qualification

The Short Answer: No

You cannot become an MOT Tester without being a qualified Mechanic.

The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) is the UK organisation responsible for regulating MOTs. As of 2018, there are certain requirements that must be met in order to become an MOT Tester.

Don't Panic! We Have a Solution

Even if you don't have formal qualifications, there's a pathway to becoming an MOT Tester through the VTAA Level 3 Course.

DVSA Requirements

The first thing you need to do is make sure you are eligible. If you meet these requirements, you can apply to become an MOT tester:

Have a current and Full UK Driving Licence for the vehicle classes you want to test

Be a skilled mechanic with at least 4 years full-time employment in the service and repair of the vehicle types to be tested

Proof of a Level 3 qualification

Have no 'unspent' convictions for criminal offences connected with the MOT Testing Scheme or the motor trade, or involving acts of violence or intimidation

Be 'of good repute' – (honest and reliable)

Proficient in English, both written and spoken

Must be aged 18 or over

The Solution

We have the solution to your problem!

MTC offers many courses that can help you become an MOT Tester.

If you are a motor vehicle technician and have worked in the motor trade for four or more years and you can prove your capability at Level 3, you can take a VTAA Level 3 Course.

This course will allow you to qualify for the MOT Testing Course.

We now offer an MOT & Hybrid/EV Level 1 Training Course.

VTAA Level 3 Course

This course is to help technicians without a Level 3 qualification to become qualified to proceed onto the MOT Training Course.

The VTAA accreditation enables motor vehicle technicians who have worked in their roles for four or more years to prove their capabilities at Level 3.

This course is a specifically designed accreditation and a lifetime achievement, meaning that once technicians have successfully completed the VTAA, they will be considered equivalent to those who have studied to Level 3 via a qualification route.

What will the learner study?

This will show technicians that they have the knowledge and skills expected, working at Level 3. The learner will do online assessments and practical assessments on vehicles.

How long is the course?

The VTAA Course is 4 days.

To complete the course, technicians will need to complete an online assessment and four practical assessments in the following areas:

Brakes
Suspension and steering
Wheels and tyres
Emissions
Electrics

Once individuals have completed the course, they will then be able to go forward to sit the MOT Training Course.

MOT Training Course

MOT Qualification Course Overview

The MOT Tester Course, Award in MOT Testing Class 4 and 7, replaces the Nominated Tester Training (NTT) which was formerly run by DVSA.

The MOT qualification is for individuals who are serious about becoming fully qualified MOT Testers for cars and vans.

This intensive MOT Tester Course will develop your skills around the MOT Testing Routine to help you become a Nominated Tester for classes 4 and 7. You will focus on Working Safely within a Vehicle Test Centre, Working Relationships, Professional Development, Pre-Test Checks & The MOT Test.

Using a blend of practical and theory based study, we make learning easy by putting in place meaningful assessments that reflect the demands of today's competitive industry, giving you a solid grounding in key principles and ideas.

Once you have completed your Award in MOT Testing Class 4 and 7, you will need to complete a VT8 Observation. This is the final step in your journey to become an MOT Tester and gain your MOT qualification.

What Will The Learner Study?

The content of this qualification has been designed to reflect the contents of the National Occupational Standards for MOT Testers.

Working safely within a vehicle test centre

Communicating with colleagues and customers

How to manage and maintain their CPD

Carrying out pre-test checks

Carrying out an MOT test

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Book your VTAA Level 3 or MOT Training Course today and begin your path to becoming a qualified MOT Tester

Step 1

VTAA Level 3

Prove your Level 3 capabilities

4 days • £695

Step 2

MOT Training

Become a qualified MOT Tester

Classes 4 & 7

Book Your Course Now

Call us on 01274 965008 for more information