A

Abandon

The term used when a test cannot be completed because the Tester considers it unsafe to continue or because it becomes apparent during the test that certain items cannot be satisfactorily inspected. An appropriate fee may be charged for the test.

Abort

The term used when a test cannot be completed because of a problem with the VTS/DC testing equipment or the Tester. No fee may be charged for the test.

AE

Authorised Examiner - the organisation that operates and manages one or more VTSs and is responsible for controlling the quality of testing carried out. Except in the case of a ‘sole trader’ the AE is not a person but a legal entity. For example, a company or partnership.

AED

The AE Delegate is a Person appointed by the AE Designated Manager to assist the AEDM with administration and management functions. Note: this does not devolve the ultimate responsibility held by the AE.

AEDM

The AE Designated Manager is the person who represents the AE and who has normally attended the MOT Management Course. Typically, an AE Principal but may be a senior manager with responsibility for the totality of the entity’s MOT testing operations.

AEP

The Authorised Examiner Principal is a person who is legally responsible for the entity. For example, every partner in a partnership; every director in a company; or the sole trader in person.

AEC

The Authorised Examiner Consultant is a non-mandatory role. AE’s may assign this role to consultants they use to provide advice on MOT standards and how to run the MOT centre.

ATL

Automated Test Lane. These are authorised by DVSA for use in the automated mode and where the tester has the option of not using an assistant if so desired.

C

Catch up

The process where test data recorded while testing under Contingency Testing is subsequently entered.

Cessation

The process by which an authorisation, approval or designation is brought to an end. Cessation is used in place of the previous terms for termination/surrender or withdrawal of an Authorisation/Designation or disqualification of a Tester/Inspector.

Connected equipment

Equipment that can send test results from the MOT test equipment directly to the MOT testing service

CT

Contingency Testing, the process by which testing may continue when the computerised system is not available due to a wide scale failure affecting a significant number of VTSs.

CT20

An MOT Test Certificate for issue during a period of Contingency Testing.

CT30

A notice of refusal of a MOT Test Certificate for issue during a period of Contingency Testing.

D

DC

Designated Council. Local Authorities authorised to carry out MOT tests.

Department (the)

Department for Transport. The Government Department, which carries out the functions of the Secretary of State and under which DVSA operates.

DGW

Design Gross Weight – the maximum gross weight at which the vehicle was designed to operate. This is normally found on a plate fixed to the vehicle by the manufacturer or in the case of older or heavier vehicles by a Ministry Plate. Such plates are not required on all vehicles.

Duplicate test documents

A copy of the documents issued at the time of the test for which the duplicate is required. VT20/VT20W, VT30/VT30W

DVLA

Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. An agency of the Department for Transport responsible for driver and vehicle licensing.

DVSA

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.

G

Group A

Collectively describes test classes 1 and 2.

Group B

Collectively describes test classes 3, 4, 5 and 7.

I

Issue of test documents

When the record is electronically accepted or a CT test document is signed by the Tester.

M

MOT tester qualification course

Level 2 Award in MOT Testing awarded to an applicant following the successful completion of an MOT course. The award is for testing classes 1 and 2 or classes 4 and 7. Previously the Nominated Tester Training course.

MOT manager course

Level 3 Award in MOT Test Centre Management awarded following the successful completion of the MOT Managers course. The course is typically for AEs and AEDMs. This course is also available for other staff to develop their knowledge of MOT management. An AE must, unless exempted, have one person who has attended this course. Previously the MOT Managers course or AE course.

MOT manager

A person filling a VTS management function – AEDM or SM.

MOT service

Formally known as the MOT Scheme or MOT Testing Scheme.

MOT testing service

The computer system and database used to manage MOT test records. Sometimes abbreviated to MTS.

N

Notify DVSA

Inform DVSA office in writing, by letter or email.

O

Officer of a company

An officer of a company is as defined in Section 744 of the Companies Act 1985, as amended or replaced by later legislation. An officer is a director, manager or secretary. In particular note that a manager has a specific meaning in that Act rather than its more normal meaning. Details of all officers are generally required to be notified to the registrar of companies.

OPTL

One Person Test Lane. These are lanes authorised by DVSA to conduct testing where the tester has the option of not using an assistant if so desired.

P

PRS

Pass after Rectification at Station - The process where defects may be rectified within one hour after the test, but before recording the results on the MOT Testing Service.

Q

QC

Quality Control.

QM

Quality Management. The system or processes used by the AE to manage the quality of testing and operations in their VTSs.

R

RBT

Roller Brake Tester.

Regulations (the)

The Motor Vehicles (Tests) Regulations 1981 as amended.

S

SA

Site Administrator is a person who can carry out VTS administrative functions, also known as VTS Administrator.

Secretary of State

Refers to the Secretary of State for Transport.

SM

Site Manager responsible for the day to day running of one or more VTSs.

Security code

Is a 6 digit code generated by a security card, email or authentication app. The code is entered into MTS by users who have roles assigned to their MTS profile.

SN

Special Notice –- an official notice issued from time to time by DVSA to inform AEs, Testers and other system users of changes to the MOT service. SNs may also be used to highlight areas of concern and to advise of developments to the Service.

Sole trader

An individual carrying out business on their own behalf rather than on behalf of a partnership, company or other body.

T

Test

All statutory tests recorded on the MTS database, regardless of whether the test is a full test or a retest. Further information on retests is provided in the Introduction sections of both MOT Inspection Manuals

Tester

MOT Tester - a person appointed by an AE to carry out tests, Inspectors appointed by Designated Councils to carry out tests, all of which are approved by DVSA. Also, DVSA staff appointed under section 66A of the Road Traffic Act.

Test slots

A test slot is a chargeable unit that enables the registration of a computerised test. A test slot is only used when the test result is a pass.

U

ULW

Unladen weight – The weight of the vehicle inclusive of the body and all parts which are ordinarily used with the vehicle when working on a road. (Unladen weight does not include the weight of water or fuel used for the propulsion of the vehicle, or of loose tools and loose equipment).

V

V5C

Vehicle Registration Certificate issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.

VT20

An MOT Test Certificate, which includes separate English and Welsh language versions (VT20W) and which may also incorporate advisory information.

VT29

An MOT Inspection Check List used by a Tester during a test for vehicles other than motor bicycles (see VT29M).

VT29M

Motorcycle MOT Inspection Check List used by a Tester during a motor bicycle test.

VT30

A notice of refusal of a MOT Test Certificate which includes separate English and Welsh language versions (VT30W) and which may also incorporate advisory information.

VT32

An advisory notice issued to the vehicle presenter advising the outcome of an inspection carried out by a DVSA examiner. Includes the English/Welsh dual language version (VT32W).

VIN

Vehicle Identification Number, also includes chassis or frame number.

VRM

Vehicle Registration Mark.

VTS

Vehicle Testing Station.

W

Working days

Working days exclude Saturdays, Sundays, Good Friday, Christmas Day or a bank holiday under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971.

Written or in writing

Wherever the terms ‘written’ or ‘in writing’ are used they should be taken to include correspondence via e-mail or recorded electronically.

Introduction to the MOT testing guide

This document is intended to help new and existing authorised examiners, testers and other interested parties comply with the requirements for authorisation by the Secretary of State to conduct statutory tests on certain motor vehicles.

The statutory requirements are contained in the Motor Vehicles (Tests) Regulations 1981 as amended. The guide does not cover the requirements for annual testing of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) or public service vehicles (PSVs). Neither does the guide cover the requirements for type approval nor individual vehicle approval of certain vehicles before they are first registered in Great Britain.

This guide is divided into a series of sections covering specific subject areas.

Detailed information on the technical standards and procedures of the statutory test is given in the appropriate MOT inspection manual.

Additional instruction and information is also issued to vehicle testing stations about testing and procedures, in the form of special notices (SNs). DVSA reserves the right to modify the content of this guide to reflect changes in the law or in light of experience.

Availability and maintenance of the guide

The definitive document is held electronically. The electronic documents will be periodically updated and changes will be advised by special notice.

Additional information is available at DVSA and the MOT service.

Other DVSA documentation

This guide should be used in conjunction with:

• the relevant MOT inspection manuals which are a detailed guide to the inspection for statutory MOT testing
• special notices (SNs) - these are issued periodically by DVSA to inform those involved with MOT testing about changes and to highlight areas of concern
• other documentation issued by DVSA

1. Purpose and scope of the test

The purpose of the MOT test is to ensure that cars, other light vehicles (including some light goods vehicles), private buses and motor bicycles over a prescribed age are checked at least once a year to see that they comply with roadworthiness and environmental standards – and to that end contributes to the government’s road safety strategy.

MOT test records

For every test conducted an electronic record is created. The electronic record of an MOT is the legal record of that test. The test result is lawful once the test has been recorded on the MOT testing service or a CT20 test certificate has been issued during contingency testing.

The vehicle testing station does not need to automatically issue a paper record of the test. However, a vehicle presenter may ask for a paper receipt of the test. If requested, the vehicle testing station must supply the relevant VT20 or VT30 certificate.

The MOT record is checked when a vehicle is taxed. The police and certain enforcement agencies can also access this information directly from the electronic record and may use it for on-road enforcement that a vehicle has an MOT or as part of other investigations.

The electronic test records are made available publicly online and and should be used by vehicle owners to confirm the MOT test result and details of their vehicle. This data can be used for a variety of road safety related purposes, such as helping motorists to make informed decisions when considering a car purchase, to help look after their vehicle and to ensure they get their vehicle tested on time.

Third parties may also access these records and use it for things such as checking validity of vehicle mileages or for part of car insurance considerations. The recorded accuracy of that test result and it being matched to the correct vehicle is therefore important.

Paper documentation (such as the receipt style test certificate and the failure document) may be issued on completion of a test, but these should only be considered as a view of the definitive electronic record.

The creation of that electronic record relates only to the condition of testable items at the time of the test and should not be regarded as:

• evidence of their condition at any other time
• evidence of the general mechanical condition of the vehicle
• evidence that the vehicle fully complies with all aspects of the law on vehicle construction and use

There are a number of specific circumstances when a paper certificate must be issued. See Section H. Documentation for full details.

The test is a visual inspection and does not require the dismantling of parts of the vehicle although doors, boot lids and other means of access will normally need to be opened. In the case of motor bicycles, cover panels may also need to be removed or raised to examine the vehicle structure.

MOT history check

The definitive legal MOT records for a vehicle can be viewed on the service to check the MOT history of a vehicle.

It includes:

• if the vehicle passed or failed
• the mileage recorded when it was tested
• where each test was done – you’ll need the 11-digit number from the vehicle’s log book (V5C)
• what parts failed at each test, and if any parts had minor problems
• when its next MOT is due
• if a vehicle recall is outstanding

Vehicle owners are advised to check their MOT details following their test. They can get information corrected on an MOT certificate if it’s wrong. Some errors can be corrected by the MOT garage that issued the test. Other errors will need to be corrected by DVSA.

MOT reminder service

Owners of vehicles that are registered in Scotland, England or Wales can sign up to the MOT reminder service to receive text or email reminder notifications for free.

When they sign up they’ll get a reminder:

• 1 month before their car, van or motorcycle MOT is due
• 2 months before their lorry, bus or large trailer MOT is due

A person can register a maximum of 2 vehicles on a single phone number or any number of vehicles on an email address. Subscriptions can be managed on the online service to add or remove vehicles.

2. Test classes

The vehicles subject to test under the regulations are divided into the following classes.

Class 1

Class 1 vehicles are motorcycles and motorcycle combinations up to 200cc and electrically powered solo motorcycles with not more than 4kW maximum continuous rated power and a maximum design speed up to 45km/h (28mph).

They can be category L1, L3 or L4.

Their first test will be required after 3 years.

Class 2

Class 2 vehicles are all motorcycles and motorcycle combinations, including electrically powered variants, other than those in category L1.

They can be category L3 or L4.

Their first test will be required after 3 years.

Class 3

Class 3 vehicles are 3 wheeled vehicles not more than 450kg unladen weight (excluding motor bicycles with side cars).

They can be category L2e or L5e.

Their first test will be required after 3 years.

Class 4

Class 4 vehicles can be:

• cars, passenger vehicles, motor caravans, private hire vehicles, motor tricycles, quadricycles and dual purpose vehicles in all cases with up to eight passenger seats
• goods vehicles not exceeding 3,000kg design gross weight (DGW)
• taxis and ambulances with up to eight passenger seats
• passenger vehicles, ambulances, motor caravans and dual purpose vehicles with nine to twelve passenger seats

Cars, passenger vehicles, motor caravans, private hire vehicles, motor tricycles, quadricycles and dual purpose vehicles in all cases with up to eight passenger seats

They can be category L5e, L6e, L7e, M1 or N1.

Their first test will be required after 3 years.

Goods vehicles not exceeding 3,000kg design gross weight (DGW)

They will be category N1.

Their first test will be required after 3 years.

Taxis and ambulances with up to eight passenger seats

They will be category M1.

Their first test will be required after 1 year.

Passenger vehicles, ambulances, motor caravans and dual purpose vehicles with nine to twelve passenger seats

They must either:

• be fitted with no more seat belts than the minimum required because of their construction
• be identified as having been fitted with a type approved seat belt installation when built
• have been tested as class 4A, 5A or 6A (PSV) with at least the same number of seat belts as are currently fitted

They will be category M2 or M3.

Their first test will be required after 1 year.

For the purpose of calculating the seating capacity on a passenger carrying vehicle fitted with bench type seats, allow a length of 400 mm measured horizontally for each seated passenger.

Taxis included in this table are those which are not exempt from MOT testing – see Section C. Designated councils, taxis and private hire vehicles.

Please refer to the appropriate MOT inspection manual to find out the minimum number of seat belts required on a particular age and type of vehicle.

If the vehicle is electrically powered, their unladen weight must not include the weight of the batteries.

If there is doubt about the power output or the weight of the vehicle, the presenter must provide documentary evidence.

Taxis and private hire vehicles may be subject to additional local requirements.

4 x 4 pickup and crew cab type vehicles with a DGW over 3000kg up to and including 3500kg are to be considered dual purpose vehicles for test purposes where no unladen weight data is available if they meet all other criteria in either option A or option B detailed within Section 2.2 Dual purpose vehicles.

American pickup means a motor vehicle with a manufacturer’s declaration (on a plate on the vehicle) that it meets the motor vehicle safety standards applicable under the law in the United States of America or Canada(c) and is capable of carrying a driver and at least one passenger; or is capable of carrying goods in an open load bed separate from the driver/passenger compartment, with or without a removable cover; and has a gross design weight over 3,000kg but does not exceed 6,500kg.

Class 4A

The class 4A test is the normal class 4 test with the addition of a check on the installation of certain seat belts.

It’s for passenger vehicles, ambulances, motor caravans and dual purpose vehicles in all cases with nine to twelve passenger seats that are fitted with more seat belts than the minimum required because of their construction and either:

• are not identified as having been fitted with a type approved seat belt installation when built
• have not been tested as class 4A, 5A or 6A (PSV) with at least the same number of seat belts as are currently fitted

They will be category M2 or M3.

Their first test will be required after 1 year.

For the purpose of calculating the seating capacity on a passenger carrying vehicle fitted with bench type seats, allow a length of 400 mm measured horizontally for each seated passenger.

Please refer to the appropriate MOT inspection manual to find out the minimum number of seat belts required on a particular age and type of vehicle.

Class 4A tests may only be carried out at class 5 test stations.

Class 5

Class 5 vehicles are private passenger vehicles, ambulances and motor caravans, in all cases with thirteen or more passenger seats (including community and play buses, etc.) that are either:

• fitted with no more seat belts than the minimum required because of their construction
• identified as having been fitted with a type approved seat belt installation to all seats when built
• previously tested as class 5A or class 6A (PSV) with at least the same number of seat belts as are currently fitted

They will be category M2 or M3.

Their first test will be required after 1 year.

Taxis included in this table are those which are not exempt from MOT testing – see Section C. Designated councils, taxis and private hire vehicles.

Class 4A tests may only be carried out at class 5 test stations.

This guide does not cover the testing of class 6 and 6a vehicles. These vehicles are tested by DVSA testers and are carried out at DVSA testing stations and other designated premises.

Taxis and private hire vehicles may be subject to additional local requirements.

Class 5A

The class 5A test is the normal class 5 test with the addition of a check on the installation of certain seat belts.

It’s for passenger vehicles, ambulances and motor caravans all cases with thirteen or more passenger seats (including community buses, etc.) that are fitted with more seat belts than the minimum required because of their construction and either:

• are not identified as having been fitted with a type approved seat belt installation when built
• have not been tested as class 5A or class 6A (PSV) with at least the same number of seat belts as are currently fitted

They will be category M2 or M3.

Their first test will be required after 1 year.

Taxis included in this table are those which are not exempt from MOT testing – see Section C. Designated councils, taxis and private hire vehicles.

Class 4A tests may only be carried out at class 5 test stations.

This guide does not cover the testing of class 6 and 6a vehicles. These vehicles are tested by DVSA testers and are carried out at DVSA testing stations and other designated premises.

Class 6 and 6A

Class 6 and 6A vehicles are public service vehicles (PSVs).

They will be category M2 or M3.

Their first test will be required after 1 year.

If the vehicle is electrically powered, their unladen weight must not include the weight of the batteries.

Class 7

Class 7 vehicles are:

• goods vehicles over 3,000kg up to and including 3,500kg DGW – they will be category N1
• zero emission goods vehicles over 3,500kg up to and including 4,250kg DGW – they will be category N2

Their first test will be required after 3 years.

This guide does not cover the testing of class 6 and 6a vehicles. These vehicles are tested by DVSA testers and are carried out at DVSA testing stations and other designated premises.

Taxis and private hire vehicles may be subject to additional local requirements.

4 x 4 pickup and crew cab type vehicles with a DGW over 3000kg up to and including 3500kg are to be considered dual purpose vehicles for test purposes where no unladen weight data is available if they meet all other criteria in either option A or option B detailed within Section 2.2 Dual purpose vehicles.

2.1 Exemptions

Detailed legislation on vehicles exempt from the MOT is set out in the Motor Vehicles Test Regulations 1981 regulation 6 (as amended), and in the Road Traffic Act 1988 Section 189.

Examples of vehicles exempted from MOT testing include:

• those constructed or first registered more than 40 years ago and not substantially modified
• track laying vehicles
• vehicles constructed or adapted to form part of an articulated combination
• works trucks
• trailers
• pedestrian controlled mechanically propelled vehicles
• electrically powered pedal cycles

Legislation also exempts vehicles used in particular ways, for example travelling to and from test, or particular places, such as on some islands, from the need to have a valid MOT test certificate.

Trailers constructed or adapted for the carriage of goods or burden with an unladen weight of more than 1,020kg and vehicles forming part of an articulated combination are subject to HGV plating and testing.

2.2 Dual purpose vehicles

A dual purpose vehicle is one that:

• is constructed or adapted for the carriage of both passengers and goods or burden of any description
• has an unladen weight (ULW) not exceeding 2,040kg
• is constructed as defined in either option A or option B below

Option A

The vehicle is so constructed or adapted so that the driving power of the engine, is, or by the use of the appropriate controls can be, transmitted to all the wheels of the vehicle.

Option B

The vehicle is permanently fitted with a rigid roof, with or without a sliding panel.

The area to the rear of the driver’s seat must be:

• permanently fitted with at least one row of transverse seats (fixed or folding) for two or more passengers, and those seats must be properly sprung or cushioned and provided with upholstered backrests, attached either to the seats or to a side or the floor of the vehicle
• lit on each side and at the rear by a window or windows of glass or other transparent material having an aggregate area of not less than 1,850cm² on each side and not less than 770cm² at the rear

The distance between the rearmost part of the steering wheel and the backrests of the row of transverse seats satisfying the requirements specified above, (or, if there is more than one such row of seats, the distance between the rearmost part of the steering wheel and the backrests of the rearmost such row) must, when the seats are ready for use, be not less than one third of the distance between the rearmost part of the steering wheel and the rearmost part of the floor of the vehicle.

2.3 Motor caravans

A motor caravan is “a motor vehicle (not being a living van) which is constructed or adapted for the carriage of passengers and their effects and which contains, as permanently installed equipment, the facilities which are reasonably necessary for enabling the vehicle to provide mobile living accommodation for its users”.

Motor caravans are not classed as goods vehicles for MOT test purposes and are therefore in class 4 or 5 depending on their seating capacity but regardless of their size or weight.

2.4 Living vans

A living van is “a vehicle, whether mechanically propelled or not, which is used for living accommodation by one or more persons and which is also used for the carriage of goods or burden which are not needed by such one or more persons for the purpose of their residence in the vehicle”.

Living vans may be type approved as either:

• passenger vehicles (M1, M2 or M3)
• goods vehicles (N1, N2 or N3)

Living vans approved as passenger vehicles must be tested as class 4 or class 5 depending on their seating capacity.

Living vans approved as N1 goods vehicles, are in either class 4 or 7 depending on their design gross weight (DGW).

Living vans approved as N2 or N3 goods vehicles (DGW over 3500kg) are subject to HGV plating and testing.

2.5 Play buses

A play bus is a motor vehicle which was originally constructed to carry more than 12 passengers but which has been adapted primarily for the carriage of playthings for children.

2.6 Ambulance

An ambulance is a motor vehicle which is specially designed and constructed (and not merely adapted) for carrying, as equipment permanently fixed to the vehicle, equipment used for medical, dental, or other health purposes and is used primarily for the carriage of persons suffering from illness, injury or disability.

2.7 Tricycles

A motor tricycle is a three wheeled vehicle with wheels symmetrically arranged, a maximum speed over 45km/h, or engine size over 50cc.

If the motor tricycle has an unladen weight not more than 450kg it is a class 3 test.

2.8 Quadricycles

A light quadricycle is a four wheeled vehicle with:

• a maximum unladen weight of 425kg
• a maximum speed of 45km/h
• not over 50cc for an internal combustion engine or 4kW for any other engine or electric motor

Sub classification category L6e-BP / L6e-BU is a vehicle equipped with:

• a maximum of two seating positions, including the seating position for the driver and enclosed driving and passenger compartment
• access by a maximum of three sides
• a maximum continuous rated or net power of 6kW
• the vehicle type-approval number recorded on the manufacturer’s plate (L6e-BP / L6e-BU)

A heavy quadricycle (L7e) is a four-wheeled vehicle with:

• a maximum unladen weight of 450kg (600kg for goods vehicles)
• a design speed of over 45km/h
• over 50cc for internal combustion engines, and a net engine power not over 15kW
• payload not over 1000kg if designed for goods

2.9 Moped

A moped is a vehicle with:

• a maximum speed of 45km/h
• not over 50cc for a petrol engine or 4kW for any other engine or electric motor

3. Who carries out MOT tests?

The testing of vehicles is conducted principally at commercial garages (authorised examiners) and by some local authorities (designated councils). These are authorised, or designated as appropriate, by DVSA, and known as vehicle testing stations (VTSs).

VTSs and their staff are subject to inspections by DVSA to ensure that testing is properly carried out. Test equipment used must be approved by DVSA.

MOT tests are carried out by testers who are specifically trained and approved. They record test results on the MOT database and sign official test documents.

VTSs may only test those classes and types of vehicle that they are authorised to test and which are of a size and weight that can be accommodated on the authorised test equipment.

DVSA staff may also carry out tests.

1. Application and authorisation

Any individual person, persons in partnership or company may apply to DVSA via an application for MOT authorisation form (VT01) to become an authorised examiner (AE), authorised to carry out MOT testing of specified vehicle classes as set out in Section A. Introduction.

DVSA publishes information about about authorised vehicle testing stations (VTSs). This includes your trading name, address and phone number to assist the public in finding a VTS in their area.

DVSA will provide information when requested under the Freedom of Information Act. Personal information will not be included in these requests.

Information regarding an AE, VTS or its staff may also be supplied in response to a request from other enforcement agencies, for example the police and HM Revenue and Customs.

An application to become an AE or gain approval for a VTS may be made separately or jointly and must show compliance with the conditions set out in the requirements for authorisation. Further information is available on how to become an MOT station, and should be read in conjunction with this guide.

Final authorisation to carry out MOT testing will be granted only to applicants who can satisfy DVSA that they are of good repute and that their premises, equipment and personnel meet the required standards.

Applying to become an authorised examiner

The application to become an AE must come from the legal entity that will be in full control of the testing operation. This will either be:

• a company
• a partnership
• a sole trader

If a company is in control of the testing operation

In the case of a company, the AE would be the company itself, not the directors or company management staff regardless of who owns the company and who its directors are. The application is to be signed by any person duly authorised by the company to do so.

Written confirmation that the person is duly authorised signed by an ‘officer of the company’ is required (see Abbreviations and definitions).

The directors must be recorded on the company’s register at Companies House.

If a partnership is in control of the testing operation

In the case of a partnership the AE would be the partnership itself, for example the partnership of F Bloggs and A N Other.

The application is to be signed by a person duly authorised by the partnership to do so.

Confirmation that the person is duly authorised in the form of a statement to that effect signed by each of the partners will normally be required together with a copy of the current partnership agreement.

If a sole trader is in control of the testing operation

In the case of a sole trader the AE would be the person making the application, who must sign it.

Any authorisation by DVSA allows only the legal entity authorised to provide the testing service. If a company is reconstituted in a way that leads to a new company registration and number being issued then it will be regarded as a new entity and a new authorisation is needed.

If, in a partnership, a partner leaves or joins, the partnership becomes a new entity, so again a new authorisation is needed, as it is in the case of a sole trader who takes on a partner or forms a company (see also Transfer of records following cessation or disciplinary action).

Application outcomes

Applications will be considered by DVSA following appropriate enquiries and inspections. Applicants will be informed in writing as to the outcome of DVSA’s considerations, which will be either:

• authorisation granted
• approval in principle (AIP)
• intention to refuse

Authorisation granted

This will always have a standard set of conditions but may be subject to additional conditions specified in the authorisation. Standard conditions include compliance with the requirements of the MOT testing guide and the appropriate inspection manuals, as amended from time to time; and special notices.

Approval in principle (AIP) given

This will list items to be complied with before authorisation is granted and will include a time limit after which the AIP will expire. Where the applicant is not prepared to comply with an item, or items, listed they must notify DVSA as soon as is possible, and before the expiry date of the AIP. The application will then be dealt with as in intention to refuse.

Intention to refuse notified

If DVSA, on behalf of the Secretary of State, intends to refuse an application (the legal term is ‘is minded to refuse’), the applicant will be sent a letter. This will give the reason(s) why DVSA intends to refuse the application. The applicant may, within 14 days of the date of the letter, appeal against the refusal.Details of how to do this will be included in the letter.

This process follows the same procedures as an appeal against disciplinary action see Section I8. Appeals against cessation. If an appeal is received within the deadline, it will be considered, and the applicant told of the outcome in due course. If no appeal is received, a further letter will be sent after the 14 days to confirm the refusal.

2. Training

A DVSA approved MOT Managers course that covers testing responsibilities, administrative arrangements, quality systems, disciplinary and appeal processes must be attended for each AE by:

• an AE Principal for the AE
• the AE Designated Manager for that AE

The course is designed to help the AE and AEDM to fully understand their responsibilities and role within the MOT Service.

3. Cessation of authorisation and other changes to businesses

Your authorisation can cease by means of:

• voluntary cessation
• automatic cessation
• cessation for disciplinary reasons

Voluntary cessation

An AE may voluntarily cease to be authorised or close an MOT centre at any time by notifying DVSA in writing.

To surrender your AE authorisation or close an MOT centre you must either be:

• the sole trader
• a partner in a partnership with permission to make the request
• the limited company director (AEP)
• someone acting on behalf of the company with permission to make the request

You must fill in the online form to tell DVSA you’re closing an MOT centre.

Once the AE authorisation has ceased or centre has closed, DVSA will:

• refund any unused MOT slots
• remove any roles assigned to this authorised examiner or MOT centre from the MOT testing service

Automatic cessation

An authorisation ceases automatically if:

• the authorised legal entity is no longer in control of the testing operation at the VTS
• the AE is a sole trader who dies, is adjudged bankrupt (or, in Scotland, has their estate sequestered), or becomes a patient within the meaning of Part VIII of the Mental Health Act 1983 (or, in Scotland, becomes incapable of managing their own affair)
• the AE is a partnership and this is then dissolved (see also other changes to business)
• the AE is a company which is no longer trading or operating (for example, dissolved or dormant), or is no longer in control of the authorised site(s) - in some cases, this could also result in disciplinary action
• no tests have been conducted for a period of 12 consecutive months or more under the AE’s authorisation

An AE must notify DVSA if any of the above changes to the business occurs. Testing must stop immediately if any of the above circumstances occurs until DVSA confirms it can recommence.

To minimise any disruption to a business that wishes to continue trading following any such changes, AEs should notify DVSA in advance when any of the above changes are planned allowing any necessary applications for new authorisations to be processed before the change takes place. An authorisation cannot automatically be transferred with a business.

Cessation for disciplinary reasons

DVSA, on behalf of the Secretary of State (see Section F. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency), has the discretionary power to take disciplinary action against an AE, including cessation of the authorisation.

Failure to adhere to the requirements for authorisation may result in disciplinary action against the AE or the tester. Section I. Discipline explains the disciplinary and appeal processes.

If the AE is a sole trader

When the AE is a sole trader, the responsibility for taking action to ensure that the authorisation is operated in accordance with the Secretary of State’s requirements and the penalties for failure to do so falls on that person.

If the AE is a company

In the case of a company, the responsibility for taking action to ensure that the authorisation is operated in accordance with the Secretary of State’s requirements and the penalties for failure to do so falls on:

• all the officers of the company (see Abbreviations and definitions)
• any other person duly authorised by the company to sign applications and other similar documents relating to the authorisation

If the AE is a partnership

In the case of a partnership, the responsibility for taking action to ensure that the authorisation is operated in accordance with the Secretary of State’s requirements and the penalties for failure to do so falls on:

• each partner
• any other person duly authorised by the partnership to sign applications and other similar documents relating to the authorisation

Transfer of records following cessation or disciplinary action

Where the constitution or administration of a business changes, and the individual AE or one or more partners or directors or officers of a company continue under the new entity, any records, including those of disciplinary matters, will continue to be regarded as relevant to the reconstituted business. Similarly, if any individual AE, partner or director or officer of a company takes up an equivalent role with another AE, any existing records (again including disciplinary ones) will be regarded as relevant to the new AE.

Where disciplinary action results in a 2 or 5-year cessation of all sites held by the AE, any individual, partner or officer of a company is not permitted to hold any role within an AE and/or Vehicle Testing Station for the cessation period.

Independence of new AEs

Where the authorisation of the AE has ceased, for disciplinary reasons as above, anyone wishing to apply for authorisation at that site(s) must be able to show that they are sufficiently independent from the former AE, partners or officers of the company.

The maximum acceptable involvement of the former AE is as landlord.

The former AE, including the AEDM and any individuals who were directly accountable in the cessation of the previous authorisation shall not be involved in any way with the management or responsibility of any authorisation.

The spouse, partner, family members of the former AE, including the AEDM and any individuals who were directly accountable in the cessation of the previous authorisation, would not be considered sufficiently independent.

Other changes to businesses

It is not necessary to stop testing immediately for changes other than those described in automatic cessation. DVSA must be notified and receive a full and complete application within 28 calendar days where there is any other significant changes to the control or operation of the business. Where DVSA advise an application is incomplete or unacceptable, this should be responded to promptly. Any delay could prevent businesses from carrying out testing.

Failure to notify such changes within this period may be treated as a shortcoming under Section I. Discipline and may result in the VTSs approval to test being suspended until an acceptable application has been received.

Such changes would include:

• a sole trader entering into a partnership
• any change in the partnerships constitution (where the AE is a partnership)
• any change to the directors of the company (where the AE is a company)
• any change to the person who was required to attended the MOT managers’ course - this only applies where a trained person is required under section B2. Training
• any change in trading name or court appointed supervision of the business other than that which is described as automatic cessation
• a company that continues to operate under the same registration and company number may continue testing provided that any changes to the officers of the company or change in the relationship to any parent company have been notified

It is possible for the AEDM, or other appropriate roles, to update some authorisation details directly on the MOT testing service, such as phone numbers, email address and correspondence address. Any other details must be notified to DVSA in writing.

The AE can cease the appointment of a tester. In the case of a multi-site AE, this cessation may be from all sites, a selection of sites, or a single site. A cessation by one AE does not affect any current or future nominations by other AEs.

4. General responsibilities

Authorisations are granted in accordance with the conditions applicable to the authorisation.

These conditions include compliance with:

• the requirements for authorisation applicable at the time of authorisation
• this guide
• appropriate inspection manuals, as amended from time to time

Additional conditions may also be specified and acceptable with the written authorisation. AEs are in law fully responsible for ensuring that statutory MOT testing at their VTSs is carried out to the required standard and in the manner instructed by DVSA.

Failure to adhere to the conditions of an authorisation or notify DVSA of a change in the constitution or operation of a business or approved site may result in disciplinary action (see Section I. Discipline). For a partnership or company, all partners or directors and officers of the company are equally responsible.

Each authorisation is required to have an AEDM and a SM for each VTS, which may be the same person. See Section M. System roles and user roles.

The responsibilities of testers are set out in Section E. Tester.

AEs are held fully responsible for the actions of their staff and others acting on their behalf or with their agreement, all such staff must be adequately supervised and fully conversant with their testing duties.

Premises and equipment

Every AE must, at all times, properly maintain the premises, facilities and testing equipment at all VTSs for which they are responsible. The facilities and equipment include:

• all facilities and equipment that were present at the time of the VTS’s approval and any additions or alternatives that have been subsequently agreed with DVSA

• all facilities and equipment required by any mandatory upgrade introduced by DVSA

All testing equipment must be kept in good working order. Measuring apparatus must be calibrated in accordance with DVSA’s requirements. If an item of mandatory test equipment is not re-calibrated by its due date, then testing which uses that item must not continue.

Testing must stop on any class or type of vehicle as soon as any mandatory item of equipment malfunctions, in a way that could prevent a test being properly conducted on that class or type of vehicle. Testing must not be resumed until the equipment is properly repaired. If equipment fails during a test but before its use has been completed, the test must be aborted, and any fee paid returned.

Roller/plate brake testers and headlamp aim testers can be calibrated anytime during the six months following its last date of calibration. The equipment is then considered calibrated until the end of the 6th month.

There are three exceptions to the general rule above:

• where a roller or plate brake tester malfunctions testing may continue, for up to 2 working days from the time the defect occurred, using the DVSA approved decelerometer - only tests booked before the malfunction can be carried out under this arrangement

• where the wheel free play detector malfunctions at an ATL or OPTL approved VTS, testing may continue for 7 calendar days from the time the defect occurred, using the conventional method with an assistant for those specific parts of the test - after that testing cannot continue

• where an item of connected equipment is unable to connect to the MOT testing service but otherwise is performing correctly, testing may continue for up to 7 calendar days from the time the defect occurred - after that testing cannot continue for vehicles that require that equipment

All testing equipment which requires a mandatory upgrade or inspection must be completed within the requirements. Testing must stop on any class or type of vehicle as soon as the deadline for upgrade or inspection is reached. Mandatory upgrade or inspections can be introduced by DVSA, by equipment suppliers or the Health and Safety Executive. Mandatory inspections include those required on lifts and hoists covered under LOLER.

An AE must apply to DVSA for approval prior to the changes being made for:

• addition of test classes

• replacement or modification of any fixed test equipment that will alter the approved dimensions or layout

• alterations to the building or the layout of equipment

The AE can apply using the Application for MOT Authorisation Form (VT01). Supporting drawings should be enclosed with the application.

No proposed change will be acceptable if it reduces clearances or dimensions (including those for access) below the limits specified in the requirements for authorisation or, for features approved only as ‘acceptable variations’, below their existing values.

DVSA must be notified of any changes to fixed equipment or equipment that needs to be connected (transfer results to the MOT testing service) using the ‘Change testing equipment’ link on the VTS page on the MOT testing service. Provided the notification has been given, the AE can proceed to have the equipment installed and use it. This includes upgrading to connected equipment where an API key must also be requested using the ‘Request a key’ link.

The changes will be checked by DVSA at the next visit. If the changes do not meet the requirements for authorisation approval may not be given.

The renewal of mobile testing equipment does not have to be notified to DVSA provided that the replacement is on the current DVSA approved list and will not affect the range of vehicles that can be tested.

Security

AEs are responsible for ensuring that blank MOT contingency testing (CT) certificates are not accessible at any time to unauthorised persons.

In the event of loss or theft of blank CT certificates the AE must immediately either:

• notify DVSA via the customer service centre

• report the loss by emailing the MOT mailbox

The AE must send a full written account of the circumstances within one working day.

An AE may consider removing a tester from the list of testers at any of the VTS(s) within their authorisation to cover periods of extended absence. This could include for prolonged illness. This should be considered for periods in excess of 3 weeks. At the end of the period of absence the AE can reinstate the tester to the list of testers.

The AE shall take reasonable precautions to ensure that all MOT security code users which they are responsible for safeguard their authentication apps, passwords and their unique email address recorded on the user’s MOT testing service (MTS) profile.

Devices containing the authentication app, and the user’s email account must be protected and not left unsecured. Outside working hours this is still the responsibility of the MTS user.

AEs must ensure that MOT security code users do not:

• disclose their password to anyone

• share the authentication app or access to their MTS profile unique email account with anyone

• write down their password

• leave devices that contain their authentication apps in an unsecured location

Contact DVSA

Liability for vehicle damage

The extent of an AE’s liability for damage is set out in Regulation 14 of the Motor Vehicles (Tests) Regulations 1981 (Statutory Instrument 1981 No 1694) as amended and in part reproduced in Appendix 4: Liability for loss or damage. It describes the scope of AE’s responsibility for loss, damage or injury caused while vehicles are in their custody for MOT tests, and while the test is being carried out.

AEs must not display disclaimers of such liability in their VTSs and must ensure that no vehicle presenter is asked to sign any such disclaimer.

Convictions

AEs must notify DVSA immediately in writing of any convictions of individuals involved in the MOT service under their authorisation. This includes:

• AEPs
• AEDMs
• AEDs
• site managers
• site admin
• testers

For conviction definitions see Appendix 7: Convictions and repute.

Checks by DVSA staff

DVSA uses a risk based approach to managing the MOT service, assessing VTS sites and test standards to determine the potential risk of non-compliance. AEs can view their site’s risk rating on the MOT testing service.

A guide to manage your MOT centre sets out the standards and good practises a VTS should strive towards to be assessed as a low risk of non-compliance.

AEs must allow the:

• inspection of their testing arrangements, equipment, facilities and records
• checking of their tester’s competence
• re-examination of recently tested vehicles by DVSA staff at any time during normal working hours or that the VTS is open

AEs should always ask to see the official warrant that DVSA enforcement staff carry. If you have doubts about anyone asking to see official documents, refuse access and call the DVSA customer service centre.

AEs must ensure their staff behave with respect and consideration towards DVSA staff, their agents and the public and remove such conduct that might reasonably be expected to cause, obstruction, insecurity, discomfort, offence, humiliation or harm.

5. Testing responsibilities

Test appointments

Appointments made for vehicles without a current MOT certificate (which could not be legally driven to and from the testing station without an appointment) must be recorded in writing. The record must include the:

• vehicle’s registration mark
• date and time of the appointment
• name of the person making it

The record must be kept for at least 3 months after the date of the appointment.

Dormant sites

AEs will be expected to staff and maintain their VTSs as operational concerns. Where no tests have been conducted at a site for a consecutive period of 3 months AEDMs are required to contact DVSA (MOTAdministration@dvsa.gov.uk) detailing the reasons and any corrective action being taken. AEs may also voluntarily surrender the authorisation and close the VTS.

When no tests have been conducted for a consecutive period of 12 months, DVSA will consider this an automatic cessation of the site. DVSA will write to the AE confirming the cessation of the site. This will be a non-disciplinary cessation and AEs may re-apply at any time.

Decline to test

An AE must not carry out an MOT test on a vehicle if it is of a class or type of vehicle which they are not authorised to test, or a type of test they are not authorised to carry out. If the presenter asks for the reason in writing a CT30 may be completed and given to the presenter.

Refusal to test

Where an AE intends to refuse to test a vehicle the vehicle presenter must told straight away of any such circumstances, pointing out that consequently the test cannot be carried out. No fee may be charged for a test refused in these circumstances.

If the presenter asks for the reason in writing, the vehicle must be registered via the MOT testing service and a VT30 produced giving the reason(s).

Refer to the relevant MOT inspection manual, Introduction, for details of reasons for refusal to test.

Abandoned and aborted tests

If, once a test has been registered, it becomes clear that the test cannot be completed because of any of the circumstances set out in Appendix 3: Grounds for refusal to carry out a test, then the test must be either:

• abandoned after being completed as far as is possible and a test certificate refused because the tester considers it unsafe to continue or because it becomes apparent during the test that certain items cannot be satisfactorily inspected - an appropriate fee may be charged for the test
• aborted because a test cannot be completed due to a problem with the VTS’s testing equipment or the tester - no fee may be charged for the test

In both of the above the test is cancelled on the MOT testing service and a VT30 must be issued, stating the reason why the test was abandoned or aborted.

Viewing the test

Any individual presenting a vehicle has the right to observe the test from the approved viewing area(s). You are required to provide an adequate viewing facility for customers. Please refer to Section D. Requirements for authorisation for full details on the viewing area requirements.

Conduct of test and test standards and methods

AEs must ensure that the MOT tests are carried out without avoidable distraction or interruption and strictly in accordance with the conditions of their authorisation, which includes compliance with:

• this guide
• the requirements for authorisation
• the appropriate inspection manual
• any other instructions issued by DVSA

They must ensure that, for each test:

• the vehicle is registered on the MOT testing service at the commencement of the test
• the appropriate test result is recorded on completion
• where required, the appropriate documentation is issued before the vehicle leaves the premises

The tester who carries out the test must:

• make all assessments of any pass/fail criteria
• confirm all database entries
• sign all appropriate documentation

AEs must ensure that assistance is always available to testers for those parts of the test that require it.

Once started, a test must be completed to the maximum extent safely possible (see abandon/abort above). If a test has to be aborted because of equipment failure or because the tester is unable to continue the test (for example, if the tester becomes unwell), no fee may be charged. The reason why the test was aborted must be entered onto the system and a VT30 produced. If the tester who started the test is not available to abort the test on the MOT testing service, this can be done by another tester.

Retests (Re-examinations)

Where the vehicle fails the test and it is expected that the defect(s) can be rectified within one hour, the tester can elect to use the PRS facility (see Abbreviations and definitions. Provided the tester has completed the initial examination before any repairs are carried out and the vehicle has been retained and repaired at the VTS.

If the defects are rectified within one hour of completion of the test, the tester must then enter the results on the MOT testing service recording the defects and the pass.

If the defects cannot be rectified, for any reason, within one hour then the vehicle must be failed. PRS is a partial re-examination for which no fee can be charged and during which the tester cannot register any new tests.

Statutory free retests, requiring only a partial re-examination, are available when:

• the VTS has not changed ownership

• the vehicle remains at the VTS for repair and the re-examination is conducted before the end of the 10th working day following the day of the initial test - in such circumstances the vehicle must not leave the premises and the failure result must be recorded following the initial test

• the vehicle is returned to the same VTS where the vehicle failed the initial test before the end of the next working day on which testing is carried out and all the failure items are those which are statutory free retest items only (see Section L. Accounts and fees)

If the vehicle is removed from the VTS for repair and returned for a retest before the end of the tenth working day following the day of the initial test then, provided the test station has not changed ownership, only a partial re-examination is required. For which half the statutory maximum test fee may be charged.

When a partial re-examination is permissible, the tester must examine all the failed defects (dangerous and major) along with any items that may have been affected by repairs carried out since the initial test. Where applicable the partial retest must also include carrying out another brake performance test and entering the results in the MOT testing service. The tester should also check any minor defects and or advisory items that had been recorded at the time of the initial test and mark as repaired as appropriate.

In all other cases, a vehicle having failed an MOT test must have a full re-examination when presented for retest and a further test fee (up to the maximum allowed for the class) may be charged.

Vehicles in classes 4A or 5A that have passed the seat belt installation element of a test but failed in other ways, that are returned to the same VTS for retest, must be re-examined as class 4 or 5 respectively. That is, the seat belt installation check should not be repeated or the additional fee for that check charged. In such cases the VT30 for the original fail must be endorsed or a non-component advisory should be recorded to the effect that the seat belt installation check has been passed.

Ideally, any re-examination should be carried out by the tester who completed the original test, but where this is not reasonably practicable any tester listed at that VTS may carry out the re-examination.

If, during the re-examination of a vehicle in any circumstances, it becomes clear that the vehicle does not meet the necessary standard, whether because the original defect has been inadequately repaired or because another defect is present, the vehicle must be failed and a further failure for the test outcome recorded.

Charges for repair work carried out on the vehicle, with the owner’s prior consent, are made by the garage in the usual way and are not covered by the statutory test fee.

If, after the retest only minor defects remain and a pass result is recorded, then there is no further retest option to remove the minor defects.

There is no retest for tests that result in only minor defects or advisory items.

Use of testing stations by DVSA

AEs must allow their VTSs to be used by DVSA for examining vehicles subject to an appeal or complaint about a test result provided that 3 days’ notice has been given. The notice period may be reduced by mutual agreement. DVSA will pay one half of the relevant test fee for the use of the premises and equipment unless the arrangement is cancelled at least 24 hours prior to the appointment.

6. Quality management

AEs are responsible for the quality of testing within their garage or garages.

Others, most notably testers, also have a responsibility upon them associated with this, but it is for AEs to ensure there are adequate systems for the management of the quality of testing at their garage or garages.

To that end AEs must ensure an adequate system of quality management at each of their VTSs. Such a system will need to be tailored to meet the individual circumstances of the VTS or VTSs, such as:

• number of VTSs
• volume of test
• numbers of testers
• experience of staff

In all cases its objective must be the same; to best ensure that MOT testing is conducted to consistently high standards.

In operating systems, AEs should always remember that sometimes things will go wrong. A successful quality management system is one that identifies things going wrong in a timely way and helps the AE put things right. A quality regime that never identifies things going wrong is unlikely to be working effectively. Where things are found to be going wrong, then it is key to record this and show what has been done to prevent reoccurrence.

Going forward, much of DVSA’s focus in identifying how well garages are managing quality will come from reviewing their quality management system. This will mean that it is necessary to document the system and how it operates. This need not be an onerous task – and, again, needs to be proportionate to the size and complexity of the AE’s operation.

The overall quality management system should always include:

• people
• training
• procedures
• equipment
• assurance
• improvement

People

This should include:

• policies for recruiting staff
• probation criteria
• policies around what you will do when there are quality failings
• information about site managers (where they are used)

Where AEs do have a responsibility across sites there would be an expectation that site managers are suitable individuals with suitable training to do their job.

Training

This will include the checks you do to make sure that all of your staff have the necessary training, both mandated training from DVSA, and also any other training they need to be able to understand and implement changes to tester’s manuals, test standards and test results entry. Also, any training they require to safely work in your garage. It may include a link to your people policy so that there is clarity on what you expect from your staff in terms of their own personal development. It would be expected that such a system should be designed to ensure that all staff conducting MOT testing have followed the in-year training requirement and have passed the annual assessment.

Procedures

You need to ensure that your staff know how MOTs operate in your VTSs including:

• what documents to use
• how bookings are operated
• how to access information such as manuals, guides and reports (for example, test quality information, test logs, slot usage and transactions)

Equipment

This needs to ensure that all relevant staff understand how to ensure equipment upkeep and calibration, that process is clear and there are clear procedures for dealing with any equipment failures.

Assurance

A procedure needs to be in place to check that at least a sample of MOTs are checked to ensure that the correct routines and procedures are followed and that the correct standards are applied.

An Authorised Examiner (AE) may consider implementing an assurance approach which could include a third party or trade representative. Any third party should cover aspects relating to MOT test standards and the administrative management of the MOT business. Alternative approaches could be to:

• nominate an experienced and well-regarded tester to conduct the assurance checks
• rotate the responsibility across the team
• partner with neighbouring garages

The AE must ensure that quality control checks are carried out by a competent person who has the appropriate knowledge, skills and experience to assess MOT testing standards. See Section M System rules and user roles.

The key factor in whatever approach is to ensure that all testers have a proportion of tests rechecked by someone who is independent of that tester – so they can have some degree of objectivity.

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.

Where a VTS has one tester it is expected that the AE should also have in place a suitable means of assuring the quality of testing This could include using a third-party assessor, a reciprocal arrangement with a local VTS. Where this is not possible other methods should be used to ensure the quality of testing, for example the use of test quality reports to check the testers own performance against the national statistics, noting reasons for differences and any action taken if appropriate.

The assurance processes in place should be subject to regular review, this will enable an AE to monitor the effectiveness and if necessary, make changes where required.

Assurance checks should include the operation of the VTS, and the test quality of the MOT tests carried out by the testers at the VTS.

Whoever is conducting the quality assurance check should either:

• closely watch all parts of the test as they are carried out
• closely observe the testing process and conduct a full re-examination of the vehicle to check standards application

Once the tester has completed the test, which will be the subject of a quality control (QC) check, any difference in the test result, test standards or observed defects must be discussed and resolved prior to confirmation of the test result on the MOT testing service.

The result of the assurance check must be recorded, including any agreed action. That agreed action could be additional training, a garage development session or any other appropriate action. The key thing here is to show that corrective action is taken.

Where unusually high numbers of failings are found, it would be expected that the frequency of checks is increased until such time as it is evidenced that the problem has now been solved.

Improvement

Overall, the system needs to demonstrate that things are fixed when they are found wanting. A good quality system will find problems and record their resolution so there is a culture of learning and improving.

7. Use of data and data protection

The MOT testing service contains personal data. The collection, storage and use of personal data within the service is explained generally in the DVSA personal information charter and in the privacy notice for MOT testing service.

All system users must ensure that the data held is kept secure and only released to those who have a right to see it.

Access for registered users of the MOT testing service will be via a secure log-on process, designed to reduce the opportunity for unauthorised access. In addition to an MOT security code, all users require a user ID and a password and users may only access data appropriate to their role(s).

It is the responsibility of each individual user of the system to ensure that all the information or data that is processed is done so legally. Failure to comply with the Act may lead to prosecution over and above any DVSA disciplinary action.

Some personal information relating to the users is held on the system, such as testers name and address, and care should be taken when accessing this information.

Each system role has a clearly defined set of access rules that allow access to information appropriate to that role. Audit logs will be created and kept on the system, and will record all appropriate actions against each user ID.

In order to safeguard the data, each system user should not:

• give another person information that they would not otherwise have access to - this includes test result information

• supply any information to a third party or member of the public unless you are told otherwise in the current MOT guide, inspection manuals or special notices (SNs), such as providing documents to vehicle presenters - any requests for information should be made in writing and sent to DVSA’s Information Access Team at DVSA headquarters

• access personal information when there is a danger that unauthorised persons may view the information

DVSA national headquarters

1. Designated councils

2. Taxis and private hire vehicles

1. Authorised examiner

2. Common to all classes

3. Class 1 and 2 vehicles

4. Class 3 and 4 vehicles

5. Class 5 vehicles

6. Class 7 vehicles

1. General

Testers are those persons appointed by authorised examiners (AEs) and approved by DVSA to carry out MOT tests to the correct standards, register tests on to the MOT testing service prior to starting a test and confirm test results when completed. The tester must personally make all the decisions regarding testable items. Similarly, inspectors employed by designated councils (DCs) will be treated in the same way as testers employed by AEs.

Before prospective testers and those returning to testing are permitted to carry out tests they must:

• satisfy DVSA that they meet the relevant criteria set out in Eligibility for becoming a tester
• have set up two factor authentication
• have successfully completed the relevant training and demonstration tests detailed in Appendix 6: Tester training and demonstration tests

A tester may be assigned to more than one vehicle testing station (VTS). Where a tester is assigned to other VTSs testers must ensure that the correct test location is selected on MOT testing service prior to starting a test.

A tester may commence testing following the authorised examiner designated manager (AEDM) or site manager (SM) of that VTS assigning them the tester role at that VTS via the MOT testing service. Even if the tester is still testing at another VTS, it is the AE’s responsibility to ensure that all testers on their list of testers remain fully competent. This includes ensuring testers:

• have completed their annual tester training and assessment and successfully completed their annual assessments
• are fully familiar with the equipment at the particular VTS and are up to date with any changes - AEs cannot assume that a previous AE has done this

The AE of each VTS is responsible for any breach of the standards for tests at their own VTS, regardless of the contractual arrangements with their testers.

If a tester ceases to be actively involved in MOT testing (whether due to a change of duties, employment or location or for any other reason) the appropriate person must update the MOT testing service. In addition the AEDM must immediately inform DVSA in writing or by email that a tester has died, in order to prevent any further correspondence and/or reminders being issued to that tester.

An individual shall cease to be a tester, where they become a patient within the meaning of Part VIII of the Mental Health Act 1983 or, in Scotland, becomes incapable of managing their own affairs

An individual shall cease to be a tester at a particular VTS, where the relevant AE revokes the appointment of that tester. The AE can revoke the appointment of a tester at any time. In the case of a multi-site AE, this may be from all sites, a selection of sites, or a single site.

Using the MOT testing service a tester may remove their name from the list of testers at a VTS, this can also be done by the AEDM or SM. In exceptional circumstances the tester may request in writing or via email if preferred that DVSA remove their name.

Testers must notify DVSA and their associated AE immediately, in writing or by email, of any conviction, as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute.

If a tester receives a 2 or 5 year disciplinary cessation, they will not be able to hold any role within an Authorised Examiner and/or Vehicle Testing Station during the cessation period.

Testers must ensure that personal details recorded within their MOT testing service user profile are correct and kept up to date. Any changes to their details can be made by the tester via the service or in exceptional circumstances by contacting the DVSA Customer Service Centre.

The tester’s profile must also include a unique current email address. This will be used for:

• essential correspondence
• MOT testing service sign in authentication
• forgotten password
• account reclaim

Contact DVSA

2. Eligibility for becoming a tester

Before attending an MOT testers course an applicant needs to be sure that they meet the DVSA requirement. They will need to:

• have a current full UK driving licence for a vehicle class within the test group they wish to test, subject to the paragraphs Restricted driving licences and Non UK licences found within this section.
• be a skilled mechanic that has at least four years full time employment, permitted by law, in the service and repair of the vehicle types to be tested
• have no convictions, as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute
• be otherwise of good repute, as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute

In addition, anyone wishing to become a tester for vehicles of classes 3, 4, 5 or 7 must either possess an acceptable vocational educational qualification or acceptable accreditation.

Further details on acceptable qualifications are given in Appendix 5: Tester qualifications and Appendix 6: Tester training and demonstration tests and on GOV.UK

Intention to refuse the authorisation of a tester

If DVSA intends to refuse the authorisation because the candidate repeatedly fails to pass the initial practical demonstration test or does not meet the criteria set out in Ongoing requirements they will write to the applicant explaining the intention to refuse. The intention to refuse may be sent to the applicant at any stage during the authorisation process when it becomes apparent that the applicant does not or is unlikely in the foreseeable future to meet the criteria.

The candidate may appeal against this intention. Any appeal must be made in writing to the DVSA office who issued the intent to refuse to authorise and be received within 14 days from the date of the notification of the intention. An informal hearing may be requested in accordance with the Informal Hearing Notes for Guidance and Code of Practice issued with the notice.

If at the end of this appeal period no such appeal has been received DVSA will write to the candidate confirming the refusal to approve.

Disqualification of testers from driving

A tester is not automatically subject to cessation from MOT testing on loss of a driving licence. A disqualified tester must not carry out road tests where these are necessary. This requirement can pose major problems for motorcycle VTSs where a road test may be necessary for a number of reasons but is less troublesome for other classes where a road test is only normally necessary if a decelerometer brake test is needed. A tester without a valid driving licence should not start an MOT test if a road test is likely to be needed.

If however, that need becomes apparent during a test, the test must be aborted and repeated in full by a tester with a valid driving licence. Should the VTS be unable to provide a suitable tester at the time, it must refund any test fee paid or, if the customer agrees, make an alternative appointment when a suitable tester will be available.

Restricted driving licences for tester

A tester without a valid driving licence category, for the class of vehicle to be tested, should not start the MOT test if a road test is likely to be needed.

However, if that need becomes apparent during a test, the test must be aborted and repeated in full by a tester with an appropriate driving licence. Should the VTS be unable to provide a suitable tester at the time of test, it must refund any test fee paid or, if the customer agrees, make an alternative appointment when a suitable tester will be available

Non UK licences

Current UK law states that:

You can drive in Great Britain (GB) on your full, valid EC/EEA driving licence until you are 70, or for three years after becoming a GB resident, whichever is the longer period. Alternatively, you may apply to exchange your licence for a UK equivalent.

In order to continue driving after these periods a British licence must be obtained.

If your driving licence has been previously exchanged from a non-EC/EEA country, you can drive for up to 12 months from the time you first became resident. You may be able to exchange your licence for a British one.

Further information about driving in GB on a non-UK driving licence can be found on GOV.UK

In the case of a tester or prospective tester who holds only a non UK licence this will be treated as equivalent to a UK licence if evidence is produced to show that the person has been a UK resident for less than 12 months. If the non-UK licence is neither to the European Communities model nor in English, it must be accompanied by a certified translation. An International Driving Permit issued on the basis of a non-UK licence will be treated similarly, if produced along with the national licence on which its issue was based and a certified translation if required.

3. Ongoing requirements

In addition to meeting the criteria given in Eligibility for becoming a tester, those seeking to become testers must successfully:

• complete a Level 2 Award in MOT testing - this explains the processes of MOT testing and reinforces the standards set out in the relevant inspection manuals
• pass a demonstration test invigilated by a DVSA vehicle examiner

Testers must keep up to date with current practices and standards by:

• studying all relevant special notices (and acknowledge on MTS when required), the MOT testing guide, the Matters of Testing blog, emailed messages from DVSA and appropriate inspection manuals and their amendments

• successfully completing annual training and assessment as stipulated by DVSA

• training on the use of any new or modified equipment installed at their VTS

• studying or training on the significance and correct functioning of any new features that are introduced on vehicle types that they are likely to be asked to test

Testers will be required to carry out demonstration tests when requested by DVSA vehicle examiners.

Testers will be required to undertake additional training or carry out demonstration tests before being allowed to test vehicles in classes that they have not previously been testing.

Testers should access their test quality information reports via the MOT testing service, to compare their personal performance with the national averages. Testers should note that there may be valid reasons as to why their own personal performance may differ from the national average, for example average age of vehicle tested. Comparison where a difference is found should lead the tester to question why the difference exists.

4. Impersonating a tester

Any test carried out by a person impersonating an approved tester will be regarded as having been carried out by an unauthorised person. Disciplinary action may therefore be taken against the AE and approved tester concerned. In addition, the unauthorised person may be refused tester status, or refused re-approval as a tester for a period of two years after the offence or after the end of any current period of cessation.

1. DVSA role

DVSA administers the MOT service on behalf of the Secretary of State. This role includes:

• documenting test methods and standards
• documenting the standards of facilities, equipment, repute, experience, competence, qualifications and administration necessary for those carrying out MOT testing
• authorising those who meet the necessary standards to carry out MOT testing
• ensuring the provision of training in test methods and administration to those who will be involved in the operation of the MOT service, standards are agreed with the department. This provision is delivered through third party training providers approved by participating awarding organisations that meet DVSA requirements
• updating and maintaining access to digital MOT test records and test related documentation
• monitoring the performance of those carrying out MOT testing and recommend, retraining and/or disciplining where standards are not maintained
• conducting statutory appeals against test failures
• investigating complaints about testing standards and resolving disputes

2. Complaints regarding DVSA

All complaints regarding DVSA should be directed in the first instance to the corporate office at DVSAs headquarters.

Find out how to make a complaint.

1. Statutory appeal against the refusal to pass a test

An owner or presenter of a vehicle has the right to appeal against a decision to refuse to pass a test following an MOT examination.

Any complainant must be given a notice of appeal form (VT17) and told to post or email the completed form to the DVSA customer service centre to arrive as soon as possible but no later than 14 working days after the date of the test.

The complainant must also be told they may have to pay the full amount of the test fee applicable to the class of vehicle and not to undertake any repairs or adjustments to the vehicle until it has been examined by a DVSA examiner. DVSA will contact the complainant to discuss the complaint and may arrange for the vehicle to be re-examined.

Find out more about how to appeal an MOT test result.

Details can also be found on the MOT test and appeals poster (VT9A) which must be displayed on the MOT notice board in every vehicle testing station (VTS).

Contact DVSA

2. Complaint against the decision to pass a test

An owner or presenter of a vehicle has the right to complain against the decision to pass a test following an MOT examination.

Any complainant must be given a notice of appeal form (VT17) and told to post or email the completed form to the DVSA Customer Service Centre. DVSA will contact the complainant to discuss the complaint and may arrange for the vehicle to be re-examined if the alleged defects appear to call into question the test result providing there is a reasonable chance of assessing what the vehicle’s condition had been at the time of test.

It is not possible to make a blanket ruling on how long after the test such an assessment can be made.

It is, however, unlikely that mechanical defects can be assessed for complaints made more than 28 days after test or that corrosion defects can be assessed for complaints made more than 3 months after test.

Any repairs made to the vehicle also make such an assessment less likely to be relevant.

Find out more about how to appeal an MOT test result.

Details can also be found on the MOT test and appeals poster (VT9A) which must be displayed on the MOT notice board in every VTS.

1. Inspection manuals and MOT testing guide

The definitive versions of the MOT testing guide and inspection manuals are available to be viewed on the MOT testing service and on GOV.UK. A special notice (SN) will advise you when amendments to the electronic versions are published.

Vehicle testing stations (VTSs) do not have to retain paper copies and DVSA no longer support hard copy updates for these publications. Where a customer requests further information they should be shown via the MOT testing service or directed to the online version.

2. Special notices

SNs are issued periodically by DVSA to inform those involved with MOT testing about changes to the service and to highlight areas of concern. Authorised examiners (AEs) must ensure that all testing staff always have ready access to all current, relevant SNs and that all current testers have read and acknowledged them.

The SN is sent to all service users via the MOT testing service and you can also view MOT manuals and special notices: detailed information.

3. Leaflets and customer information

Customer information and leaflets are available in electronic format and may be viewed online and printed. There is no requirement for AEs to stock or distribute this information.

The current information available is:

• car parts checked at an MOT
• motorcycle parts checked at an MOT
• diesel smoke test poster for MOT garages

4. Forms

The official forms used in connection with the MOT service are listed below, together with notes on their use. These forms must only be used for MOT purposes and in accordance with this guide.

VT01 - Application for MOT authorisation or a variation to MOT authorisation

The form must be completed in accordance with the relevant guidance notes. See Section B1. Application and authorisation.

Any false statement may put at risk the application or any authorisation resulting from it.

When a change is made which requires the submission of a VT01, you can download the form or request a form from the DVSA customer service centre.

Contact DVSA

VT9 - Authorisation of an examiner

DVSA issues this certificate when an AE is authorised. It specifies the classes of vehicle that the AE can test and the approved premises. It must be displayed on the designated MOT notice board at that VTS. You can apply for a replacement VT9 certificate online if you have lost or damaged the original.

VT9A - Vehicle testing classes, fees and appeals poster

This poster outlines the:

• test classes
• test fees
• retest procedures
• appeals procedure
• DVSA customer service centre details

It must be publicly displayed in the VTS on the designated MOT notice board or adjacent if it will not fit.

Download the MOT test fees and appeals poster.

VT17 - Notice of appeal

This form is used by anyone who wishes to appeal against the result of a test. It must be made available to the customer upon request and is available on GOV.UK.

It covers the decision to either pass or fail a vehicle. It must be completed and sent by the appellant to DVSA customer service centre.

An appeal against the decision to fail a vehicle must be sent to DVSA customer service centre not more than 14 working days from the date the failure was recorded.

An appeal against the decision to pass a vehicle should be made within 28 calendar days of test for mechanical defects and 3 months of test for corrosion related defects.

VT20 - Test certificate

When required, this must be printed via the MOT testing service except when operating in contingency testing (CT), where test documents will be handwritten.

Production or completion of the VT20 test certificate

A test record is created on the MOT testing service database, on completion of the test when the tester is satisfied that all the test requirements have been met.

A test certificate must be printed and issued if:

• The customer requests a copy
• The vehicle is not registered in the UK
• The vehicle is imported
• There is no VIN on the vehicle as presented
• There is no VRM on the vehicle as presented
• The test was conducted under contingency and the customer requests a copy from the MOT testing service

A test certificate must be printed via the MOT testing service when requested except when operating in CT. In such instances all test documents must be hand-written. Templates for handwritten forms are available to print from the MOT testing service. Customers may exchange hand-written certificates for printed ones. This can only be done after the result has been entered as part of the CT catch up process. The exchange of a hand-written test certificate for a printed test certificate is free of charge.

Except in the cases of a duplicate, exchange or a replacement certificate, the tester who carried out the test must sign the test certificate, after checking its content.

In the case of a retest for which only a partial re-examination is required or as described in Section B5. Testing responsibilities - Retest, the tester who has carried out the retest examination must confirm on the MOT testing service the test result, pass or fail, after they have re-examined the vehicle to the extent required by Section B5. Testing responsibilities - Retest. They must also sign and check the content of the certificate for accuracy.

Test record corrections

Amendments to test records can only be carried out before the expiry date of the test record.

If an error on a test record is identified, the tester who carried out the test must amend the test record on the MOT testing service after the relevant details have been verified.

However, if the original tester isn’t available another tester may make the change to the record.

A test record can only be amended by the VTS that carried out the test for a change in vehicle colour or a change to the current odometer reading. Changes to an odometer reading can only be completed within 28 calendar days of the test completion, the new reading must be that seen on the day the change is made.

If the VRM of a vehicle is changed after the test has been recorded on the MOT testing service, this cannot be altered by a VTS. The customer should be advised to contact the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

DVSA amends test records and can issue replacement test certificates when the original AE is no longer authorised. DVSA may change:

• VRM and/or VIN
• Vehicle colour
• Vehicle make or model
• Odometer reading
• Country where the vehicle is registered
• The MOT test centre that is stated on the record

Find out more information about correcting MOT certificate mistakes.

Replacement test documents

If a test record has been amended, if required, a replacement certificate must be issued free of charge. The original test certificate issued via the MOT Testing Service should be destroyed.

If a substitute tester amends the test record they must sign the replacement certificate on the issuer signature line.

Details of who changed the test record, the VTS number and the date of issue will be printed at the appropriate place on the test certificate.

For replacement CT20 see Section N. MOT contingency testing procedures.

Replacement test documents cannot be issued if the VTS is operating under CT.

Duplication of test documentation

Test details are held on the system so duplicates may be issued by any VTS on payment of the appropriate fee, providing that the customer can demonstrate their right to acquire the duplicate document.

In order to validate that right, the customer must provide either the test number from the original certificate or the unique reference number from the V5C, plus the VRM. If the customer requests the duplicate at the original VTS, they may alternatively present the subject vehicle to satisfy this proof.

Where the request is made at a VTS that didn’t test the vehicle before issuing the certificate the VTS will need to enter onto MOT testing service the 11-digit reference number from that vehicles latest log book (V5C).

Duplicate test documents can be produced by all VTS roles, the producer must add their signature on the issuer signature line.

Vehicle owners can also acquire a duplicate test certificate free of charge online from the check MOT history service.

A duplicate must not be issued by a VTS more than 18 months after the date of the test.

A VTS issuing a duplicate test certificate is entitled to charge a fee for this as specified on the MOT test fees and appeals poster (VT9a).

Alterations to VT20

VT20s showing alterations must not be issued.

If the VRM of a vehicle is changed after an MOT test, see Replacement test documentation.

Dangerous defects

If the tester considers a non-testable item to be so defective as to render the vehicle dangerous to drive on the road, the tester must warn the vehicle presenter of the nature of such defects. This must be recorded by selecting the dangerous defects option when entering the results on the system or manually by annotating the certificate when hand completed. Dangerous defects must be clearly explained to the vehicle presenter.

VT29/VT29M – MOT inspection checklist

This form may be used by testers to record information whilst conducting an MOT test. Download a copy of the MOT inspection checklist, it is also available to print on the MOT testing service.

When testing in CT, testers must use this form to record:

• any failure defects with sufficient detail to allow subsequent data entry
• any advisory items found

VT30 – Refusal of an MOT test certificate

When required, this must be printed via the MOT testing service except when operating in contingency, then test documents will be handwritten. Templates for handwritten forms are available to print from the MOT testing service.

Following test registration, a VT30 must be issued:

• when a tester refuses to test a vehicle for any of the qualifying reasons set out in Appendix 3: Grounds for refusal and the vehicle presenter requests a ‘refusal to test’ decision in writing
• when a test has to be abandoned because the tester considers it unsafe to continue or because it has become apparent during the test that certain items cannot be satisfactorily examined
• when a test is aborted due to a problem with VTS equipment or tester
• on request when a test is completed and the vehicle has failed to meet the required standards
• if the tester considers an item on the vehicle, whether testable or not, to be so defective as to render the vehicle dangerous to drive on the road

If the test is abandoned because items cannot be examined

When a test has to be abandoned because the tester considers it unsafe to continue or because it has become apparent during the test that certain items cannot be satisfactorily examined, the tester must:

• complete as much of the test as possible and include any failure defects found during the partial test
• give the reason why it was considered that the test could not be completed

If the vehicle fails to meet the required standards

When a test is completed and the vehicle has failed to meet the required standards. the test record must detail the reasons for failure and if required the VT30 must be issued and signed by the tester who carried out the test.

If the vehicle remains at the VTS for repairs that are likely to take more than 1 hour to complete, the test failure must be recorded on the MOT testing service and if required a VT30 must be issued on completion of the test.

If the tester decides to use the pass after rectification at station (PRS) facility (see Section B5. Testing responsibilities), then they must complete the test before repairs are carried out. Once the repairs are complete the tester must register the results on the MOT testing service and if required, issue a VT30 in addition to a VT20.

If the vehicle is dangerous to drive on the road

If the tester considers an item on the vehicle, whether testable or not, to be so defective as to render the vehicle dangerous to drive on the road, the tester must warn the vehicle presenter of the nature of such defects.

Non testable defects must be recorded by entering a manual advisory and selecting the dangerous option.

Dangerous defects must be clearly explained to the vehicle presenter.

VT32 – Advisory notice

An advisory notice is issued to the vehicle presenter advising the outcome of an inspection carried out by a DVSA examiner. It includes the English/Welsh dual language version (VT32W).

Exchange test documentation

Test documentation issued under CT, may be exchanged for printed versions at the original VTS if requested. No charge can be made for this service. If the customer is unable to produce the hand-written documents the procedure for duplicate issue should be followed.

For information on exchange CT certificates see Section N. MOT contingency testing procedures.

Welsh language policy

DVSA has a Welsh language policy for records and documents issued at locations in Wales. It says:

• MOT test certificates will be generated in both English (VT20) and Welsh (VT20W) - all standard machine printed text will have the Welsh equivalent - the tester can print either or both certificates as required

• refusal notices will be generated in both English (VT30) and Welsh (VT30W) - all standard machine printed text will have the Welsh equivalent - the tester can print either or both certificates as required

• advisory notices will be VT32W with all standard machine printed text in both English and Welsh

• when operating in CT, hand-written entries need only to be in English and the VT30W need not be issued

• contingency test certificates will be printed in English only

5. Retention of documentation

All documentation copies must be retained in a readily retrievable manner at the issuing VTS for the duration of the retention period. Following this period all documents should be securely destroyed in an environmentally friendly manner.

Retention periods

The number of months that each document must be retained for is explained in the following table.

A month is defined as a calendar month from the date the test result was entered.

If emissions records are not available, DVSA could consider that an emission test was not conducted.

1. Shortcomings in testing and operation

When shortcomings are found either in testing or in the operation of the MOT testing service, DVSA will take action according to the circumstances. For minor shortcomings this will usually consist of advice or counselling, but for more serious cases (or repeated minor shortcomings) formal disciplinary action and prosecution may be considered.

The Secretary of State has absolute discretion to notify persons that they shall cease to be authorised examiners (AE) or testers. These functions are carried out on behalf of the Secretary of State by DVSA.

This section provides guidance for all involved in MOT testing, whether as testers, AEs or DVSA staff, on how this discretion will normally be applied and:

• explains the procedures normally to be followed when DVSA becomes aware that a tester or AE may not be maintaining the required standards necessary to ensure integrity of the MOT testing service

• sets out the maximum level of disciplinary action that will normally be applicable so as to ensure procedural consistency

The section is not intended as a set of rules to be rigidly applied. DVSA uses predefined sanctions and a disciplinary points system to gauge the severity of shortcomings, the total number of points is then used as a guide to the appropriate level of disciplinary action. In judging what course to follow in a particular case or series of cases, DVSA will consider all known circumstances and may alter the level of action to reflect the circumstances.

DVSA reserves the right to modify, in light of experience, the points or actions indicated in this section. DVSA will tell you about such modifications in special notices or by amending the pages of this guide.

Where the guide does not cater for a specific shortcoming, points will be allocated in line with those given to shortcomings of similar significance.

DVSA may publish details of vehicle testing stations (VTS) who have been removed from the MOT service following formal disciplinary action. Details will be published after the appeal period has lapsed or the appeal has been determined.

2. Underlying principles - general

Where a vehicle is re-examined after test, any action taken will be based on its likely condition at the time of test, taking into account all known factors that could have changed the condition of the vehicle.

All judgements are based on the balance of probabilities. However, the Secretary of State does have considerable discretion about who may be testers or AEs and, while seeking always to adhere to the principles stated here, reserves the right to exercise that discretion as widely as seems appropriate to the particular circumstances.

In deciding the appropriate course of action to be taken shortcomings that constitute a threat to road safety, having an impact on the environment or likely to affect the integrity of the MOT scheme or DVSA will be treated with the utmost seriousness and carry more weight in the determination of the final outcome.

The outcome of formal disciplinary action may take the form of:

• no further action
• an advisory warning letter
• a temporary suspension notice
• a formal warning
• cessation of a tester’s approval or an AE’s authorisation in the form of either short term cessation (for 28 calendar days with conditional return) or cessation (for 2 or 5 years)

When considering the outcome of disciplinary cases, DVSA will also consider if the good repute of an AE (including any individuals who is part of the AE) and a tester has been lost. Where good repute has been lost, any affected individual(s) will be unable to hold any role within the MOT testing service.

Where this occurs, DVSA will notify any authorisations that are affected by this loss of good repute, advising that the individual(s) concerned can no longer be involved in MOT testing operations. For further information about repute, see Appendix 7: Convictions and repute

When a problem is brought to DVSA’s attention, either by a tester who is being pressurised by an AE to test improperly or by an AE who is unhappy with a tester’s performance, this will not normally count against the party reporting it. However, where an AE is unhappy with the testing standards of a tester the AE should consider stopping the tester from testing pending the outcome of any action by DVSA.

Testers must be in a fit condition, both physically and mentally, to carry out testing to the required standard. A tester taking medication should read the instructions for its use and, if in doubt, not continue testing without their doctor’s confirmation that the medication will not affect their ability to test. If a tester is recovering from illness or injury, he/she should test only if confirmed as fully fit to do so. A tester being on medication or recovering from illness will not normally be treated as mitigation for errors in testing.

The effectiveness of a tester who is under severe emotional stress must also be suspect. If the stress is likely to affect the tester’s ability to test, they should not test. Similarly, testers whose judgement may be affected by alcohol or other substances should not test. In either event, these factors will not normally be regarded as mitigation, however, each case will be treated on the merits of the evidence available. AEs should implement reasonable management controls to try to ensure that the testers they use are in a fit condition to test.

3. Underlying principles - testers

In cases involving tester’s judgement or minor procedural omissions or deviations from the testing system a formal warning will usually be issued on the first offence that in DVSA’s opinion justifies formal action.

Where there is one or more instances of more serious procedural omissions or deviations from the testing standards this may lead to a short-term cessation.

Where there are instances of significant procedural omissions, for example major elements of the test missed, significant negligence or significant malpractice, a single instance will usually lead to cessation.

A single serious incident of substandard testing that could have a significant effect on road safety will usually lead to cessation.

Cessation will usually be justified for a single case if the tester is personally involved in an act which could also justify single offence cessation for an AE or where very serious infringements have taken place.

Appendix 8.1. Cessation without previous warning (single offence cessation) indicates the type of case usually considered to be very serious.

Serious infringements that involve fraud may be considered for prosecution.

Cessation will be justified if

• a tester receives any conviction, as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute
• a tester is deemed to no longer be of good repute, as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute

A tester who has been required to stop testing because of failure to complete required training or demonstration tests but who continues to take part in testing, other than as an assistant, may have disciplinary action taken against them resulting in cessation.

Where disciplinary action has resulted in the issue of a formal warning or short-term cessation letter this may be taken into consideration should further disciplinary action be contemplated. Such letters generally remain valid for 5 years from their date of issue.

A tester who has been issued with a 2 or 5 year cessation will not be permitted to hold any roles within an AE and/or VTS during the cessation period. Requesting or accepting any MOT roles during this period could result in the loss of their good Repute as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute. It could also affect any future application to re-enter the MOT Scheme following cessation.

4. Underlying principles - authorised examiners

Cessation will be considered where any individual involved in an authorisation:

• receives any conviction, as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute
• is deemed to no longer be of “good repute”, as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute

Except in the case of very serious infringements that DVSA consider to justify single offence cessation action, an AE will normally have been issued with a formal warning and given the opportunity to correct failings, before the subsequent offences under consideration lead to the cessation of authorisation. Appendix 8.1. Cessation without previous warning (single offence cessation) indicates the type of case usually considered to be very serious.

Serious infringements that involve fraud may be considered for prosecution.

Where offences are serious enough to justify consideration for cessation, with the exception of single offence cessation, short term cessation (with or without training) action will normally be considered in the first instance.

Where single offence cessation is considered, DVSA will take care to ensure that the offence justifies such serious action having regard to the risk to road safety or the repute of the MOT testing service.

Normally, the points counted against an AE will be no less than those counted against the tester for the same fault unless there is clear evidence of deceit by the tester and the AE has not been remiss in the application of management controls and quality assurance. Tester shortcomings brought to DVSA’s attention by an AE as a result of management quality checks will not normally be counted against the AE.

Previous disciplinary sanctions can be taken into consideration for 5 years should further disciplinary action be contemplated from the date of issue.

If an AE has received a 2 or 5 year disciplinary cessation of all their sites, none of the associated AEPs will be able to hold any role within another AE and/or VTS during the cessation period. Requesting or accepting any MOT roles during this period could result in the loss of their good repute as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute. It could also affect any future application to re-enter the MOT scheme following cessation.

Multi-site AEs

In considering cases involving AEs who operate at more than 1 site, each site will be treated separately in the first instance. If the repute of the MOT testing service is considered to have suffered through the actions of the AE, DVSA has the right to issue a notice of cessation to the AE regarding all of the AEs’ sites. If a specific site is subject to cessation for disciplinary reasons, then no further sites will be authorised in the same catchment area within the period of cessation. Regardless of whether any individual sites are subject to notices of cessation, DVSA may review the overall effectiveness of that AE’s management system.

If it appears to DVSA that there are problems affecting a significant proportion of sites DVSA may ask for an action plan to be prepared and implemented to improve the group performance. If problems continue, DVSA may consider granting no further authorisations until the record of the remaining parts of the group has improved or, in severe cases issuing notices of cessation to part or all of the group. In considering the overall performance of the group, convictions relating to non-VTS sites within the group may also be taken into consideration

Where an AE has been shown on the balance of probabilities to be culpable of misdemeanours affecting all sites, for example deliberate failure of minor items to encourage trade, and the resulting accumulated disciplinary points are sufficient to warrant disciplinary action all sites may be issued with notices of cessation.

5. Disciplinary action - how it can arise

Some examples of typical circumstances that can lead to disciplinary action against a tester or AE are:

• a justified complaint where defects have been found on a vehicle that had previously passed its MOT test (this is known as an ‘inverted appeal’)
• a justified appeal against a vehicle that had previously failed its MOT test (this is known as a ‘statutory appeal’)
• a re-examination of a recently tested vehicle by DVSA revealing an incorrect pass/fail decision
• an observed test where a vehicle (with or without induced defects) is submitted for examination by a ‘mystery shopper’ (a person posing as a customer) in order to check the tester’s testing methods or standards and those methods or standards appear to be inadequate/incorrect
• an unobserved test with induced defects - this provides for leaving the vehicle at the VTS and collecting it later that day in order to check the tester’s testing methods or standards - generally, this is used to target sites where there are perceived standards issues or other enforcement methods are impracticable
• an observed test when DVSA has asked for test procedures to be demonstrated by a tester and these procedures have proved unsatisfactory
• the recognition by DVSA of a deficiency in the operation of the MOT testing service at a VTS
• other more involved investigations in cases where DVSA believe there may be significant abuses, which may include covert surveillance of sites offering MOT tests or at sites where potentially testable vehicles are present
• data analysis or intelligence that triggers investigations leading to identification of a deficiency
• involvement in offering a service that undermines MOT test standards or the integrity of the MOT testing service, such as removing or bypassing emission control equipment or the ‘clocking’ of odometer instruments

6. Points evaluation, and possible action

Shortcomings found are attributed a predefined sanction or scored under a points system; the points for particular shortcomings are set out in the appendices listed below. Shortcomings not listed are allocated the same scores as others of similar seriousness.

Action after initial assessment of points

The course of action to be taken by DVSA will be determined by DVSA’s initial assessment.

A low points score may lead to advice being given to the tester or AE.

A higher score may result in DVSA considering formal disciplinary action. DVSA will determine whether starting the formal disciplinary procedure is justified; if it is not, appropriate advice may be issued to the AE or tester.

A level 1 sanction will lead to advice being given to the tester or AE.

A level 2 sanction will lead to a temporary suspension notice being issued to the AE or tester.

A level 3 sanction will result in DVSA considering formal disciplinary action against the AE or tester.

At the end of this section is a flow-chart showing the normal chain of events from the finding of shortcomings to the point at which action is considered.

Advice

If the points score from a visit is below the level shown in the chart at the end of this section or a level 1 sanction is defined, advice will normally be given.

It is not part of the formal disciplinary system however, it can be taken into account in considering the significance of mitigation offered in a formal disciplinary case arising within 5 years of the advice being given.

For any advice to be used in this way it must be given in writing and this will normally be via a copy of the vehicle examiner’s report, or advisory warning letter/notice. They can be delivered electronically via email or through an MOT testing service notification/event.

Temporary suspension notices

Temporary suspension notices will be issued if a level 2 sanction is defined at the point a shortcoming is discovered.

A temporary suspension notice will remain in place until sufficient rectification to the shortcoming found has taken place, and sufficient evidence of rectification is accepted by DVSA.

Temporary suspension notices can be taken into account in considering the significance of mitigation offered in a formal disciplinary case arising within 5 years of the notice being issued.

Formal disciplinary action will normally be initiated if a level 3 sanction is defined or the points score from a visit or occurrence is at or above the level shown in the chart at the end of this section.

7. Formal disciplinary procedure

Unless otherwise specified, if formal disciplinary action is to be considered, a letter (referred to as a contemplated disciplinary letter) will be sent to each of those parties against whom action is being considered.

The letter will be accompanied by copies of all documentary evidence that is being considered such as vehicle examiner’s reports or photographs and will invite written representations to be made via email about the case within 15 working days of the date of the letter.

In addition, if the maximum level of sanction indicated is cessation, the contemplated disciplinary letter will note any previous formal warnings and short term cessation letters which will be considered in deciding what action DVSA will take.

Where cessation is contemplated and previous formal warnings or short-term cessations are cited, testers and AEs may make relevant representations about all cited formal warnings or short-term cessations.

DVSA will review the evidence and representations on any previous formal warnings or short-term cessation letters that are being considered.

Formal warnings which have previously been reviewed will not be reviewed further, unless new and additional evidence is provided.

Once the deadline is passed, DVSA will consider the action to be taken. All representations made by, or on behalf of, the tester or AE will be studied, together with the evidence and photographs sent along with the contemplated disciplinary letter. Should any new evidence (other than clarification or confirmation of previous evidence) be considered by DVSA, the tester or AE will be given the opportunity to comment on it.

The case may then be re-scored considering all the evidence offered.

Disciplinary casework and letters will be sent to you by email as the preferred option. This will be encrypted and sent to your personal email address on the MOT testing service (MTS) system, which will ensure data protection. In the case of an AE, the email will be sent to the authorised examiner designated manager (AEDM) of the AE. It is therefore essential, users check their email address is correct, personal and not shared. Instructions on how to open the letters will be contained within the same email.

If you have engaged a third-party consultant, it will be your personal decision to forward this information onto them. We will not send this information to anyone except the individual(s) concerned in the case.

Where a case is judged serious enough to justify formal action, one of the following options will be chosen:

• a formal warning, a warning which will be taken into account in the event of future formal disciplinary action
• a formal warning as above but with a requirement to successfully complete additional training
• a tester’s approval or AE’s authorisation will cease in the form of either a short term cessation, (for a period of 28 calendar days) or a cessation (for a period of two or five years)

Testers and AEs will be notified of the final decision in writing along with any conditions attached to the outcome.

Fast track

This process simplifies and speeds up the disciplinary process. It provides less uncertainty for the authorised examiner and tester, as they will know the outcome sooner.

The process will only be used when:

• there is factual evidence that can be documented 
• the evidence is not contested
• the authorised examiner (AE) and tester both agree that the shortcoming has occurred, and they are content to use this process
• the AE or vehicle testing station (VTS) and tester have no preceding disciplinary cases in the previous 5 years

and where the shortcomings have been identified in any of the following circumstances:

• statutory test results are recorded using the wrong vehicle details
• security breaches
• a vehicle and/or tester not present for excessively long duration tests
• abuse or misuse of the MOT testing service free text option
• mystery shopper for Class 4, 5 or 7 only, where 2 to 4 defects are missed or incorrectly applied
• a targeted reinspection, MOT Compliance Survey or an appeal for Class 4, 5 or 7, where 2 to 4 defects are missed or incorrectly applied
• MOT6D – Demonstration Test with induced defects (class 4, 5 and 7 only) where there are missed defects and/or major procedural errors

Where the outcome is a 2 or 5 year cessation

The AE must submit a full application and meet all current requirements to be accepted back into the MOT scheme, and their AEDM must attend an MOT managers course.

A tester must demonstrate they meet the acceptable criteria for becoming a tester as specified in Section E2. Eligibility for becoming a tester. In addition, they must also complete the required training and complete a practical demonstration, refer to Appendix 6 Tester Training and Demonstration Tests.

Where the outcome is short term cessation

The AE must submit an application and meet all the requirements for an AE following a short term cessation be accepted back into the MOT scheme.

This will include:

• completion of a VT01 application form
• DBS checks for each AE principal and the AEDM
• declarations of non-conviction for the business and each AEP
• declaration that the site remains unchanged from the previous authorisation
• the AEDM may have to attend an MOT managers course if they have not done so in the previous 2 years
• if the AEDM is not an AE principal, an AE principal may need to attend an MOT managers course on behalf of the AE

The maximum level of sanction normally considered appropriate for any particular points score is set out in the following appendices:

AEs and testers can provide mitigation that is relevant to the current disciplinary case, DVSA will consider this and it may lead to a reduction in the sanction that is imposed.

Additionally, in the case of an AE, if evidence is offered of the operation of a quality-control or quality management regime significantly better than the minimum acceptable to DVSA, in operation prior to the disciplinary case, this will be taken into consideration and could lead to a reduction in the level of sanction taken.

Notice of cessation

Where cessation is the outcome of formal disciplinary action this will normally become effective 35 working days after the issue of a notice of cessation. In the case of cessation for 2 or 5 years this period may be reduced. For example, the notice has early effect should DVSA believe there to be a serious risk to road safety.

For a tester, the notice period before cessation becomes effective may be reduced to either:

• 10 working days, if the particular case justifies more than 100 points
• Immediate effect, if the particular case justifies 500 points or more

For an AE, the notice period before cessation becomes effective may be reduced to either:

• 10 working days, if the particular case justifies 200 points or more and previous formal warnings or short term cessations justifying a total of 140 points or more are still valid
• Immediate effect, if the case being considered justifies single offence cessation under Appendix 8.1. Cessation without previous warning (single offence cessation)

Cessation may be implemented with immediate effect, without DVSA first issuing the normal contemplated disciplinary letter or considering any representation in a few very serious cases that DVSA sees as representing a very significant risk to road safety or the integrity of the MOT service.

The notice period before cessation becomes effective for AEs and Testers may be extended to a maximum of 24 hours. During this period testing may be monitored, where anomalies are identified the cessation will take immediate effect.

Cessations in relation to convictions or repute, as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute will normally be implemented for:

• the AE - 28 days after the DVSA have been notified

• a tester - with immediate effect

Period of cessation for testers

When a tester ceases to be approved for disciplinary reasons, this will normally be for:

• 28 calendar days - in the case of short-term cessation

• 2 years - the period may be extended to 5 years where the cessation results from repeated shortcomings considered to have major road safety implications or damage the integrity of the MOT testing service.

• 5 years - where the cessation results from a shortcoming(s) listed in Appendix 8.1. Cessation without previous warning (single offence cessation)

• an indefinite period - where cessation has been actioned in relation to conviction, as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute

Period of cessation for authorised examiners

When an AE has ceased to be authorised for disciplinary reasons this will normally be for:

• 28 calendar days - in the case of short-term cessation

• 2 years - the period may be extended to 5 years where the cessation results from repeated shortcomings considered to have major road safety implications or damage the integrity of the MOT testing service.

• 5 years - where the cessation results from a shortcoming(s) listed in Appendix 8.1. Cessation without previous warning (single offence cessation)

• an indefinite period - where cessation has been actioned in relation to conviction as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute - the cessation will remain in place until all convictions become spent

8. Appeals against cessation

Testers who have ceased to be approved and AEs who have ceased to be authorised following disciplinary action may appeal against the action to the Secretary of State.

An AE or tester wishing to lodge such an appeal must do so in writing, as soon as possible and no later than 14 days after the date of the notice of cessation, via the DVSA office that notified the decision.

Cessation will take effect on the date notified even if the appeal is still under consideration.

The Secretary of State has delegated the decision on such appeals to the Chief Executive of DVSA who is supported by a wholly independent section.

An important element of this procedure is that appeals must be fully made aware of the relevant issues and arguments so that they can properly review the decision.

Your written representations or statement must contain full particulars of the reason(s) for the case you wish to appeal. DVSA may refuse a request for an appeal where acceptable grounds for the appeal have not been advised.

To assist you, the grounds of appeal have been categorised. The following list is not exhaustive, and it is recognised that there are some overlapping ground. The grounds of appeal include:

• the disciplinary procedures have not been followed by DVSA at each and every stage
• the technical evidence is disputed
• other evidence is disputed
• the wrong interpretation has been placed upon the facts
• the sanction imposed or the number of disciplinary points allotted is not in accordance with the MOT testing guide
• the penalty is not proportionate to the offence
• there are mitigating circumstances

Once a decision has been made by our MOT appeals team, in general, there is no further form of appeal to DVSA. Once you have exercised your right of appeal and no new evidence has been provided that would change our decision; it would not be appropriate for the case to be reviewed further.

If you remain dissatisfied with the outcome of the appeal you can ask your MP to refer the case to the Parliamentary and Health Services Ombudsman (PHSO); although please be aware due to the nature of MOT testing sitting under a legislative process, they may not be prepared to consider your request. If they do, please note that PHSO will only look for instances of maladministration.

Further information can be found on the ombudsman website.

Alternatively, you can seek to have the decision judicially reviewed. A High Court judge will scrutinise the decision to establish whether the decision made was lawful.

Read more about how a judicial review works.

Informal hearings

An appellant may ask for an informal hearing, guidance on which can be found in Appendix 8.8: Informal hearings.

9. Formal warning review

There is currently no statutory right for a tester or AE to appeal against the issue of a formal warning at the time it is issued however, there is a non-statutory provision for a tester or AE to request a review of a formal warning.

If a tester or AE believes that the issue of a current formal warning was unjustified, or the disciplinary points allocation was excessive he may request a review of the decision.

A tester or AE wishing to request such a review must do so in writing:

• no later than 14 days after the date of issue of the formal warning letter
• via the DVSA office that issued the formal warning

The formal warning will be independently reviewed by the DVSA MOT appeals section.

Where cessation is contemplated and previous formal warnings cited, testers and AEs may make representations about all cited formal warnings, irrespective of those that have already been formally reviewed.

10. Disciplinary action flow chart

Disciplinary action flow chart

Y= Yes N= No

1. Prohibitions general

DVSA’s examiners and specially authorised police officers have the power to issue prohibition notices (PG9) to prevent use on public roads of any vehicle found to be defective. In serious cases the prohibition has immediate effect, but in less serious cases, its effective date may be delayed for up to ten days.

If a prohibition notice is issued to a vehicle of a class which is required to pass an MOT test, or which would normally only be required to pass an MOT test if it was older, that notice can be lifted only through the following procedure:

1. The defect or defects noted on the prohibition notice must be remedied, as must any other defects that would prevent the vehicle from passing an MOT test.

2. The vehicle must be submitted for and pass a normal MOT test which has to be carried out by a suitable vehicle testing station (VTS) in the normal way.

3. If the PG9 was issued by the police, follow the prohibition removal instructions issued by the police. If the PG9 was issued by a DVSA examiner, the prohibition is automatically cleared once the vehicle has passed its MOT.

2. Role of the VTS

It’s an offence to move a prohibited vehicle on a public road except in limited and clearly defined circumstances that are listed in the notes on the prohibition notice.

Where asked to carry out a test on a vehicle that has a prohibition notice in force, it is essential - to protect the vehicle owner and driver from prosecution - that a firm appointment with the VTS is made and recorded.

To protect the authorised examiner (AE) and his staff from prosecution, the AE must ensure that, while the vehicle is in the custody of the VTS, it is not driven on the road unless such driving is considered necessary for:

• test runs following repairs or rectification, within 3 miles of the place of repair

• conducting the MOT test itself

A prohibited vehicle submitted for test must be treated in all aspects as a normal MOT, concluding with the issue of the appropriate documentation. However, if you are asked to rectify the defects as well this should not be done during the test.

1. Introduction

At the end of 1986 all police forces in England, Wales and Scotland introduced the vehicle defect rectification scheme (VDRS). The aim was to improve road safety by checking that defects noted by the police are put right, something that prosecution does not necessarily ensure. Authorised examiners (AEs) are invited to take part in the VDRS scheme because of their experience in such work, but co-operation is voluntary.

Queries about the procedure, the content or completion of defect forms, see Role of the VTS and other relevant matters should be directed to the police force that issued the document, not the department or DVSA.

2. Vehicle defect form

When a police officer finds a fault on any vehicle that is, or will be, required to pass an MOT test, they may issue a vehicle defect rectification form instead of advising or prosecuting the driver or issuing a prohibition notice. Once the defect is rectified, the form is endorsed by a tester to confirm that this has been done adequately.

The driver or owner must then return the completed form in the manner instructed on the form within the specified time, usually 14 days to avoid prosecution for the defects. Alternatively, to avoid prosecution, the driver or owner may produce evidence that the vehicle has been scrapped.

3. Role of the VTS

A vehicle testing station (VTS) may be asked to verify that the faults have been rectified and to endorse the form, or to rectify the faults as well. If a vehicle is presented at a VTS that is not authorised to test that class of vehicle, the driver should be told to go to an appropriate station (unless the defects are absolutely straightforward – for example, a light not working).

A tester should carry out the examination and once satisfied that all defects listed on the form (whether an MOT testable defect or not) have been properly rectified complete the appropriate section. If the tester cannot satisfy them self that the defects listed have been rectified, they must not endorse the form. The tester need only be satisfied that the listed defects have been rectified; other faults that may be noted during the examination should be brought to the attention of the presenter.

To endorse the form, you may use any embossing stamp or ordinary rubber stamp that includes the business name and phone number. Ideally this should also include your VTS number, but this can be added by hand if you don’t have a stamp that includes it.

4. Fee

There is no set fee for this examination; the charge is a commercial matter for agreement between the presenter and the VTS.

1. Test fees

Where statutory fees for testing are reviewed authorised examiners (AEs) will be formally advised of any changes.

The fees are the maximum that may be charged. AEs are permitted to charge less than the statutory fee for a test, a retest or for a duplicate test certificate. It is stressed that, irrespective of the fee charged, the required examination must be carried out in full and in accordance with the department’s requirements. Failure to do so may result in the cessation of the AEs authorisation and testers approval to test.

Current statutory maximum test fees are notified periodically via a special notice and the MOT test fees and appeals poster which must be publicly displayed on, or adjacent to, the MOT notice board from the date specified in the special notice.

2. Retest fees

There are two occasions where an AE/vehicle testing station (VTS) must not charge a retest fee.

A

An AE or VTS must not charge a retest fee if the vehicle:

• stays at the VTS at which the examination took place so that defects on testable items can be repaired
• is retested before the end of the 10th working day following the day of the initial test

The vehicle must remain at the VTS and must not leave at any time.

B

An AE or VTS must also not charge a retest fee if the vehicle:

• is retested at the same VTS where the vehicle failed the test before the end of the next working day on which testing is carried out
• has only failed for one or more of the items listed below

All classes

• access panels
• battery
• bonnet
• boot lid
• brake pedal anti-slip
• doors (including hinges, catches and pillars)
• dropsides
• electrical wiring
• fuel filler cap
• horn
• lamps (excluding headlamp aim)
• headlamp cleaning or levelling devices (not requiring a headlamp aim check)
• loading door
• main beam ‘tell-tale’
• mirrors
• rear reflectors
• registration plates
• seat belts (but not anchorages)
• seat belt load limiter
• seat belt pre-tensioner
• seats
• sharp edges or projections
• steering wheel
• tailboard
• tailgate
• towbars (excluding body around anchorage points)
• trailer electrical sockets
• tyre pressure monitoring system
• vehicle identification number (VIN)
• windscreen and glass
• windscreen wipers/washers

All classes (except class 1 and 2)

• tyres
• wheels

Class 5 only

• break glass hammer
• door open warning device
• emergency exits and signs
• entrance door remote control
• entrance and exit steps
• stairs

Where the vehicle fails the test and the vehicle is repaired and subsequently re-examined using the Pass after Rectification at Station (PRS) facility, see Section B5. Testing responsibilities, no further test fee can be charged for the re-examination.

Partial retests

If the vehicle is removed from the VTS for repair and returned to the same VTS (provided the test station does not change ownership) and is retested before the end of the 10th working day following the day of the initial test, then only a partial retest is needed and a retest fee of up to half the statutory maximum test fee may be charged.

Class 4A and 5A retests

Where, on initial test, a vehicle in Class 4A or 5A passes on all aspects of seat belt installation but fails in other areas that are part of the Class 4 or 5 test respectively, they may be retested as a Class 4 or 5. This must be done at the same VTS where the vehicle was originally failed as a Class 4A or 5A.

The total number of belts fitted at the time of retest must be no more than were fitted at the original test. The tester who conducted the original test must endorse the original VT30 or enter a non-component advisory to the effect that the seat belt installation check standards have been met and showing the number of belts installed. That tester (and the AE) will be accountable for the standards applied in the installation check.

The fee charged for such a retest will depend on the failure items and circumstances involved. If the conditions set out in retest fees apply, then no fee may be charged.

If the vehicle is returned before the end of 10 working days then half the statutory maximum fee may be charged, otherwise the fee charged may be up to the statutory maximum permitted for Class 4 or 5 as appropriate to the number of seats.

Retest qualification period

Vehicles which remain at the VTS for repair and re-examination no longer qualify indefinitely for a partial free retest. These vehicles will only qualify if that re-examination is carried out before the end of 10 working days following the day of the initial test. Vehicles not re-examined within the above timescale must undergo a full test and the statutory maximum test fee for the class of vehicle being tested may be charged.

Only one partial re-examination is permissible per full examination.

3. Duplicate, replacement and exchange certificate fees

The maximum fee for any duplicate test certificate is £10. A duplicate certificate is that issued in accordance with Section H4. Forms when an original has been lost or damaged.

No fee may be charged for the issue of a replacement test certificate (for example a test certificate issued because an error was made on the original test certificate). A replacement test certificate is one issued in accordance with Section H4. Forms when a tester is satisfied that some of the information entered on the original certificate is wrong.

No fee may be charged for ‘exchange’ documents. See Section H4. Forms.

4.VAT, credit card payments and appeal fees

Test fees themselves are not currently subject to VAT, although where a vehicle presenter re-charges their client an amount greater than the test fee actually charged, VAT may be chargeable on some or all of that re-charge. Any enquiries on this subject should be directed to the local VAT office.

Where an AE accepts payment for an MOT by credit or debit card, they must not add an additional amount to the test fee to cover any administration fee if it results in the cost exceeding the maximum test fee chargeable.

The customer should not be expected to cover any additional costs over and above the maximum charge for the MOT.

DVSA may consider action against any AE found to be charging a fee higher than the maximum.

If the AE is discounting the fee and the extra charge does not cause a payment in excess of the maximum fee this is acceptable.

The fee payable to DVSA for an appeal against the decision to fail an MOT test is the maximum fee for the appropriate vehicle class. This fee may be returned, in part or fully, if DVSA agrees that the appeal was justified.

5. Test slot charges

AEs are required to pay a charge to DVSA for each test pass recorded on the MOT testing service. Test slots must be purchased in advance. The registration of a new test or retest at a VTS will not be permitted if the AE does not have at least one test slot available.

6. MOT accounts

Every AE has a slot account that will hold all the test slots purchased by the AE.

VTSs controlled by the AE take from this ‘pool’ of slots. An AE may monitor their account usage at any time via the MOT testing service.

Slots can be purchased by any person in the AE holding the role of authorised examiner designated manager (AEDM) or authorised examiner delegate (AED).

Payments and any credits due to an AE will be processed through DVSAs finance department.

AEs experiencing problems buying slots or with the slot account updating should contact the MOT testing service desk.

AEs should be aware that payments that are refused by their banks or building societies will have their payment reversed from the system by taking away the amount of unpaid slots purchased. These unsatisfactory actions may affect the repute of an AE.

Methods of paying for slots

An AE can pay for slots using the following preferred methods:

• debit and credit cards

• direct debit

AE’s may also pay by cheque or postal order; a form will have to be completed which is available online. Whichever method is used, AEs should monitor their slot balance regularly.

AEs that choose the direct debit method to pay for slots should be aware that it can take up to 5 working days for your slot account to be updated.

AEs are reminded that should their authorisation cease completely, they will need to cancel the direct debit mandate. This can be done on the MOT testing service or directly with their bank.

Account refunds

A refund may be available for unused slots if the AE has ceased to be approved or to test.

AE no longer approved

If the AE has ceased, AEs must fill in the online form to tell DVSA that an MOT centre is closing. MOT Administration will progress the refund along with other actions relating to garage or AE closure. The refund will be completed by DVSA finance in Swansea.

Reduce AE slot account balance

Exceptionally, an AE may request a refund to reduce the slot balance. The AE must fill in a slot refund request form.

It will take approximately 14 days from the date the refund request is processed to when the cheque is generated and sent to the AE.

1. General

The following information supplements the requirements set out in the appropriate requirements for authorisation.

2. Sign and notices

The three triangles MOT sign detailed in ‘The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016, Schedule 11, diagram 864’ must be displayed in a prominent position, no part higher than 4.5m from the ground and no more than one sign on each road frontage.

The business trading name as described within either the Companies Act 2006 or the Company, Limited Liability Partnership and Business (Names and Trading Disclosures) Regulations 2015 is displayed conspicuously and legibly.

3. Notice board

A notice board must be installed with a protective transparent covering which must be positioned inside the vehicle testing station so that DVSA notices can be easily read by any persons intending to or submitting vehicles for test.

The MOT notice board must not be obscured or be inaccessible and must be of sufficient size to accommodate at least one A3 fees poster (landscape) and one certificate of authorisation (A4 portrait) and must not be used for any other purpose other than official DVSA MOT notices and company public liability insurance and certificates of incorporation.

If the notice board displays both MOT and business documents, there must be clear and distinct separation between the MOT documents and any documents not related to MOT testing.

All authorised examiners (AEs) must also display:

• the certificate of authorisation (VT9) issued by DVSA
• the current fees and appeals poster (form VT9A) showing vehicle classes, test fees and appeals procedure and the details of how to contact DVSA

The current fees and appeals poster may be displayed adjacent to the ‘official’ notice board if it will not fit on the notice board proper. Additional copies of this poster can be obtained online.

4. Equipment calibration

The MOT list of acceptable equipment lists the various makes and models of test equipment that have a measuring capability, such as headlamp aim testers and brake testers. The suitability of other test equipment is individually assessed at each VTS.

Find MOT equipment approved by DVSA.

Equipment maintenance, calibration and records

All testing equipment must be kept in good order and measuring apparatus must be calibrated regularly in accordance with DVSA’s requirements. In all cases calibration records must be kept for a minimum of two years.

In the case where the serial number of the equipment cannot be found the VTS should make up a number, which identifies the equipment, and mark the equipment accordingly. Where a VTS uses an item of test equipment that is awaiting approval, the AE should contact DVSA for advice.

The AE is required to ensure that calibrations are carried out when required. For roller brake testers (RBTs), plate brake testers (PBTs), automated test lane (ATL) weighing facility, motorcycle weighing equipment (where applicable) and headlamp aim testers, the calibration expiry date will be taken as the month end date. For example, a certificate showing an expiry date of 15 July 2024 will be taken as 31 July 2024. See Roller and plate brake testers, ATL and motorcycle weighing facilities, and headlamp aim testers’

RBTs, PBTs, weighing equipment and headlamp aim testers can be calibrated anytime during the six months following its last date of calibration. The equipment is then considered calibrated until the end of the 6th month.

Test equipment must be calibrated and maintained in accordance with DVSA’s requirements. AEs must ensure maintenance and calibration appointments are arranged and carried out in a timely manner to prevent these becoming overdue.

If an item of mandatory test equipment is not re-calibrated – or, in the case of ATL or OPTL steering and suspension play detectors, not inspected – by its due date, then testing which uses that item must stop until the equipment has been recalibrated or inspected.

Testing must also stop if any mandatory item malfunctions in a way that could prevent a test being properly conducted. Testing must not be resumed until the equipment has been properly repaired. If equipment fails during a test but before its use has been completed, the test must be aborted and any fee paid returned.

Maintenance periods

All equipment must be maintained in good working order at all times.

In the case of ATL or one person test lane (OPTL), maintenance periods for steering and suspension play detectors is a minimum of:

• 6 months for pneumatic equipment
• 12 months for hydraulic equipment

Maintenance must be conducted by the manufacturer, manufacturer’s agent, a suitably qualified maintenance engineer or calibration specialist and a maintenance report issued detailing any remedial work conducted.

A signed and dated declaration that the equipment is in good working order must be issued after the maintenance has been completed.

Portable appliance testing

Under Health and Safety legislation (including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998), employers are responsible for the inspecting and testing of all types of electrical equipment in all work situations.

Among other things, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations require that equipment provided for use at work is safe, maintained in a safe condition and, in certain circumstances, inspected to ensure this remains the case.

In particular, the Electricity at Work Regulations place a legal responsibility on employers and employees to comply with the provisions of the regulations and take reasonable steps to ensure that no danger results from the use of electrical equipment.

It is therefore the responsibility of AEs to ensure that all electrical equipment used on their premises, has been tested to ensure that it poses no risk to health and safety.

Frequency and location of calibration

Equipment should be calibrated as follows.

Exhaust gas analysers

The user should make a daily leak check on the hose and probe. Most machines have an automatic facility for doing this. If not, a physical check of the hose and probe must be carried out to confirm that there are no leaks.

Depending on the make or type, exhaust gas analysers must be calibrated every 3, 6 or 12 months. This must be carried out according to the approved procedure by a recognised calibration technician only. An exhaust gas analyser must be calibrated with a certified calibration gas and when the ambient temperature is above 5°C.

Roller brake testers, plate brake testers, ATL and motorcycle weighing facilities, headlamp aim testers

RBTs, PBTs, ATL and motorcycle weighing facilities, and headlamp aim testers can be calibrated anytime during the six months following its last date of calibration. The equipment is then considered calibrated until the end of the 6th month. Where the calibration certificate only states the month and year of expiry, the last day of that month should be taken as the calibration expiry date.

Decelerometers

Decelerometers calibrated prior to 1 April 2023 must be calibrated at intervals not exceeding 2 years.

From 1 April 2023 decelerometers must be calibrated at intervals not exceeding 1 year.

Decelerometers may only be calibrated by:

• the manufacturer
• a calibrator accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS)

Salter brake testers

From 1 April 2023, calibration of Salter brake testers will no longer be acceptable if completed by vehicle testing station (VTS) staff.

Salter brake testers must be calibrated at intervals not exceeding 2 years.

Salter meters can be done by:

• the manufacturer’s local depot if available
• a firm that has taken over responsibility for equipment support from the manufacturer
• a calibration specialist
• a local trading standards office

Tyre tread depth gauges

Tyre tread depth gauges require a periodic accuracy check at least every 6 months. This can be done by placing the base foot onto a flat surface, such as a window glass, and checking that the zero datum’s align.

AEs are to keep a separate record showing the date of the accuracy check.

Diesel smoke meters

Diesel smoke meters should be checked by the user every week.

They should be calibrated every 12 months by a technician accredited by UKAS.

Calibration personnel

Equipment may be calibrated on site only by the following personnel.

Exhaust gas analysers and diesel smoke meters

Exhaust gas analysers and diesel smoke meters should be calibrated by a technician accredited by UKAS. There are two exceptions:

• equipment (non-catalyst or catalyst) with an approved automatic monthly self-gassing facility requires a 12 monthly UKAS calibration with monthly calibrations which may be performed by VTS staff

• non-catalyst OIML Class 1 equipment with an approved self-gassing facility requires a 6 monthly UKAS calibration with an intermediate calibration which may be performed by VTS staff

Roller brake testers, plate brake testers and headlamp aim testers

From 1 April 2023, calibration of brake testers and headlamp testers will no longer be acceptable if completed by vehicle testing station (VTS) staff.

RBTs, PBTs and headlamp aim testers must be calibrated by either:

• the original manufacturer
• firm that has taken over responsibility for equipment support from the manufacturer
• a calibration specialist

ATL and motorcycle weighing facilities

From 1 April 2023, calibration of ATL and motorcycle weighing facilities will no longer be acceptable if completed by vehicle testing station (VTS) staff.

ATL and motorcycle weighing facilities should be calibrated by either:

• the original manufacturer
• a company which has taken over responsibility for equipment support from the manufacturer
• a calibration specialist

Independent calibrators

VTSs employing calibration specialists must satisfy themselves of the technical competence and viability of the company concerned and be able to demonstrate this to DVSA upon request. .

Documentation

In cases where a VTS employs either the manufacturer or a calibration specialist, there must be a written contract and the test station must obtain a certificate for each calibration.

5. Calibration certificates

All certificates must contain:

• a certificate serial number
• details of the equipment, including make, model and serial number
• title and address of calibration company or agency
• signature of calibrator and date of calibration
• smoke meter and gas analyser calibration certificates shall meet the UKAS and DVSA standard agreed

Calibration certificates must include a record of the test load, gauge readings and percentage error. Calibration results may be recorded in kgf or the equivalent in imperial lbs.

Retention

Calibration records must be readily retrievable and be kept for a minimum of two years. Calibration records may be retained digitally or as a hardcopy.

Exhaust gas analysers certificates

Calibration certificates for exhaust gas analysers are normally valid for 3, 6 or 12 months from the date of issue. However, if the certificate is issued no more than 14 days before the expiry of an existing certificate, then the expiry date may be 3, 6 or 12 months from the date of expiry of the old certificate.

Roller brake tester and plate brake tester certificates

Certificates for RBTs and PBTs must include a record of the test load, gauge readings and percentage error. The following limits apply in both forward and reverse operation as applicable.

Minimum values for roller brake testers

The minimum values for roller brake testers are as follows.

Class 1 and 2

If approved before 1 July 1996, the minimum values are:

• 30kgf (66lb)
• 100kgf (220lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)

If approved from 1 July 1996 onwards, the minimum values are:

• 0
• 50kgf (110lb)
• 100kgf (220lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)
• 300kgf (660lb)

Class 3 and 4

If approved before 1 July 1996, the minimum values are:

• 100kgf (220lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)
• 400kgf (880lb)
• 500kgf (1100lb)

If approved from 1 July 1996 onwards, the minimum values are:

• 0
• 100 kgf (220lb)
• 200 kgf (440lb)
• 400 kgf (880lb)
• 600kgf to 800kgf (1320kgf to 1760lb)

Class 5 (all equipment)

For low range, the minimum values are:

• 0
• 100kgf (200lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)
• 400kgf (880lb)
• 600kgf to 800kgf (1320lb to 1760lb)

For high range, the minimum values are:

• 0
• 1200kgf to 1500kgf (2640lb to 3300lb)
• 2000kgf to 2500kgf (4400lb to 5500lb)
• 3500kgf to 4000kgf (7700lb to 8800lb)

Class 7 (all equipment)

The minimum values are:

• 0
• 200kgf (440lb)
• 400kgf (880lb)
• 600kgf to 800kgf (1320lb to 1760lb)
• 1200kgf to 1500kgf (2640lb to 3300lb)

Minimum values for plate brake testers

The minimum values for plate brake testers are as follows.

Class 1 and 2 (all equipment)

The minimum values are:

• 0
• 30kgf (66lb)
• 100kgf (220lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)

Class 3 and 4 all equipment

The minimum values are:

• 0
• 30kgf (66lb)
• 100kgf (220lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)
• 600kgf (1320lb)

Class 7 all equipment

The minimum values are:

• 0
• 100kgf (200lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)
• 600kgf (1320lb)
• 1000kgf (2200lb)

Accuracy of brake force readings

Brake force readings shall be accurate to within:

• +/- 3 kgf (6.6 lb) of the true value from zero up to and including 100kgf

• +/- 3% of the true value for all readings above 1000kgf

Calibration certificates for brake testers are to contain the following (or similar) statement: “This is to certify that the above brake test equipment has been calibrated and is within the limits specified by DVSA”.

ATL weighing facility

Certificates must include a record of the test load, gauge readings and percentage error.

Accuracy to within +/- 3% between 200kg and 3000kg imposed weight traceable to an acceptable quality standard.

Calibration certificates for brake testers and ATL weighing facility are to contain the following (or similar) statement: “This is to certify that the above brake test equipment has been calibrated and is within the limits specified by DVSA”.

Headlamp aim testers

Calibration certificates for headlamp aim testers are to contain the following (or similar) statement: “This is to certify that the above headlamp aim testing equipment has been checked and is in correct alignment with the vehicle standing area”.

Diesel smoke meter

Smoke meters are to be calibrated every 12 months. Calibration certificates are normally valid for 12 months from the date of issue. However, if the certificate is issued no more than one month before the expiry of an existing certificate then the expiry date may be 12 months from the expiry of the old certificate.

A new diesel smoke meter should be supplied with an initial calibration certificate in one of two forms.

It may have a certificate of conformity issued by a BSI/ISO registered company, the meter will have been calibrated as a part of the in-house quality control procedure. It will carry the BSI and/or ISO logos, and will be dated. Within six months of the issue of a Certificate of Conformity a new meter must be calibrated by a UKAS accredited engineer.

Alternatively, it may have a UKAS calibration certificate issued immediately prior to or following delivery by a UKAS Accredited Engineer. Like all other UKAS issued calibration certificates on diesel smoke meters a new meter must be calibrated by a UKAS Accredited Engineer within twelve months of the issue of this certificate.

If you have any questions regarding the certification of a smoke meter, contact the manufacturer or their agent.

Motorcycle weighing facility

Certificates must include a record of the test load, gauge readings and percentage error.

Accuracy should be within +/- 3%.

Calibration certificates for weighing facility are to contain the following (or similar) statement: “This is to certify that the above weighing facility has been calibrated and is within the limits specified by DVSA”.

6. MOT testing service IT and associated equipment

Authorised examiners are responsible for the supply and maintenance of all IT equipment and internet connection used for MOT testing purposes.

PC, iMac and Laptops

The MOT testing service is designed to run on most recent Windows and Mac OS computers and laptops with:

• a 1GHz processor
• 512MB system memory
• 20GB hard drive space
• 1024 by 768 screen resolution or above
• a network cable socket (RJ45) or Wi-Fi

MOT testing service is designed to run on any tablet with screen sizes of 9 inches and above (measured diagonally across the screen).

MOT testing service works on internet connections of 0.5Mbps (512 Kbps) and above.

The internet connection may be via fixed line, 3G, 4G, 5G or satellite.

Browser requirements

A suitable browser is required to view MOT testing service website. One of the following browsers will need to be installed on your device to use MOT Testing Service:

• Chrome (latest version) - supplied by Google and can be used on either Windows, MacOS, iOS and Android
• Firefox (latest version) - supplied by Mozilla and can be used on either Windows or MacOS
• Edge (latest versions) - supplied by Microsoft with its latest IT equipment
• Safari 12 and later - supplied by Apple with its latest IT equipment
• Safari for iOS 12.1 and later - supplied by Apple with its latest mobile equipment
• Samsung Internet (latest version) - can be used on Android operating systems

Printer requirements

An A4 black and white printer is required to print MOT certificates and other documents from the MOT testing service.

All printer consumables, such as paper and ink, are provided by the AE/VTS.

MOT security code

All MOT testing service users with a role assigned to their MOT testing service profile need to enter a security code when signing into MOT testing service. Security codes generated by authentication app will normally only be required once a day if the sign in details remain the same. MTS users who sign in using an email address will be required to authenticate each time they sign in, rather than just once per day.

The 6 digit security code is generated by either:

• authentication app
• email

Authentication app

Users will use an authentication app installed on their personal smart phone or tablet. This app will be linked to their MOT testing service profile. The app automatically generates the security code and is entered into MOT testing service when required as part of the sign in process

Email

MOT testing service will send a security code to the users unique email address recorded on their MOT testing service profile. A new code is sent when required and is entered as part of the sign in process

7. Complaints about the MOT testing service

Complaints concerning MOT testing service should be made in the first instance via the MOT testing service desk. If the complaint is not resolved the AE should contact the DVSA customer service centre.

Contact DVSA service desk

Contact DVSA customer service centre

1. Carrying out MOT contingency testing

When the MOT testing service is not available, users must follow contingency procedures in order that MOT testing can continue and customers are able to receive relevant documentation. MOT central records can be updated later with test details.

Contingency test (CT) procedures will be invoked by the MOT testing service desk when the MOT testing service is not available due to an authorised outage.

An authorised outage is defined as:

• the service being unavailable or parts of it not working because of DVSA technical problems

• a widespread broadband communication outage

CT must not be used when IT equipment or services at a vehicle testing station (VTS) stops working. This includes:

• IT equipment

• internet connection

• printers

Authorised examiners (AEs) are responsible for repair of this equipment or service and MOT testing must stop until the fault has been rectified.

During CT, test documents are handwritten without contacting the MOT testing service desk.

When normal service resumes all tests carried out under CT conditions must be input onto MOT central records.

Authorising contingency testing

Users who experience a problem accessing MOT testing service should first check the service status page.

This page will advise on any problems with the service and if appropriate may display the contingency testing code.

If the status page says the service is running normally and you are still experiencing problems, contact the DVSA service desk.

If an automated message deals with the problem please do not continue with the call, there is no need to speak with an operator.

Contact DVSA service desk

Where VTSs are unable to contact the DVSA service desk, they should phone the DVSA customer service centre.

Contact DVSA customer service centre

Contingency testing incident code

The code will be used to validate any MOT documentation issued during the period of the CT.

VTSs must not test using CT procedures without a valid incident code.

A contingency code will last for one day, in the event of multiple authorised outages the same code will be used however; a new code is required for each new day an authorised outage lasts.

2. Contingency testing documentation

Before any CT test is started the VTS must have the required test documentation that may be necessary to complete the test.

Backdating a test record or certificate or carrying out an MOT test without issuing the proper document may lead to formal disciplinary action being taken.

The documents are automatically filled in with the VTS name, number and address for security purposes.

VTSs must download from the MOT testing service (MTS) at least one copy of each:

• contingency MOT test certificate (CT20)

• contingency refusal of an MOT test certificate (CT30)

Copies may be saved on a PC or tablet and printed when needed and/or hard copies may be kept and photocopied as required.

The MOT inspection checklist (VT29/VT29M) will also be required during CT.

Vehicle registration process during contingency testing

When registering a test in contingency the tester must collect all the following information using a VT29/VT29M.

Additional information required during CT should be recorded on the blank reverse side of the form:

• vehicle registration mark (VRM)
• vehicle identification number (VIN), chassis number or frame number (where present)
• vehicle make and model (including design gross weight (DGW) where applicable)
• approximate date of first use
• colour - basic colour, for example, red (not the manufacturers designation)
• fuel type
• test class and vehicle category
• odometer reading
• engine code (where present)
• engine number (where present)
• country of registration

When all of the above vehicle information has been obtained, a test may commence as appropriate and the VT29/VT29M is used in the normal way to record the test result. The tester must record defects including their severity, any advisory items and brake test readings.

Recording the vehicle registration mark (VRM)

The registration mark entered on the VT29/VT29M must be that actually carried by the vehicle at the time of test using only standard alpha numeric format.

If both military and civilian marks are displayed the civilian mark is to be used.

If the vehicle does not display a registration mark, ‘NOT DISPLAYED’ must be written in this section.

If a non-UK registration mark is displayed, that should still be entered in this section.

Recording the vehicle identification number (VIN), chassis number or frame number, where present

The full VIN, chassis or frame number must be entered onto the VT29/VT29M.

Write ‘NOT FOUND’ if a VIN, chassis or frame number is:

• not required due to the age of the vehicle
• cannot be found
• unreadable

Storage requirements for contingency testing certificates

AEs are responsible for ensuring that blank MOT CT certificates are not accessible at any time to unauthorised persons.

Copies of all issued documents must be retained as specified in Section H. Retention of documentation.

Completing contingency testing documents

At the end of a test or re-test, the appropriate CT documentation must be completed and issued to the vehicle presenter.

All CT documents must be handwritten using a ballpoint pen. Entries on test certificates must be written clearly and firmly to ensure that any subsequent attempt to alter them will be obvious. Any box that is not used must be clearly marked as not applicable (‘N/A’).

Documents showing errors or alterations must not be issued. All alterations or errors must be clearly marked as ‘cancelled’ however; there is no requirement to retain the cancelled document.

A second copy of all CT20 and CT30 certificates issued during CT must be retained by the VTS.

CT20 test certificate

See Filling in a CT20 certificate.

CT30 - contingency refusal of an MOT test certificate (CT30)

The CT30 must be issued to notify the vehicle presenter of any defects.

See Filling in a CT30 certificate.

MOT inspection check list - VT29/29M

When testing in CT, testers must use this form to record vehicle details and any identified defects.

This must include the defect severity (dangerous, major or minor) and any advisories with sufficient detail to aid the completion of CT documents and accurate data entry during CT catch up.

The VT29/29M must be retained as specified in Section H. Retention of documentation).

Where a vehicle undergoes a partial re-test, the following details must be recorded against the original VT29 for the re-test:

• the statement ‘re-tested’ must be written next to the defects plus any new advisory defects

• if the repaired defect is satisfactory tick the appropriate ‘pass’ box

This form is available to print from the MOT testing service or from GOV.UK.

It may also be used to record any advisory items found.

Emissions records

Relevant emissions records are to be treated in the normal way and must be retained for 3 months following the requirement of Section H. Retention of documentation of this guide.

Refusal to test

A hand completed CT30 should be issued to any vehicle presenter who requests written confirmation of the reason why the tester has refused to test their vehicle. This CT30 must be handwritten ballpoint pen.

No copy of this CT30 needs to be retained as it is not recorded on MOT central records. See Section B5. Testing responsibilities and Appendix 3: Grounds for refusal of this guide for the reasons why a tester may refuse to test a vehicle.

3. Filling in a CT20 certificate

You must complete the following sections of the CT20 test certificate.

Contingency MOT test number

This is the 8-digit alpha numeric number (contingency code) supplied by the DVSA service desk.

Registration mark

This should be copied from the vehicle.

VIN or chassis/frame number

This should be either:

• the full VIN/chassis/frame as quoted
• ‘NOT FOUND’

EU classification

The EU classifications with their vehicle descriptions can be found in the Introduction.

Country of registration

This is the country in which the vehicle was registered.

Odometer reading

This should be the odometer reading displayed at the time of test. Units (‘miles’ or ‘km’) must be entered.

If no odometer reading is displayed, ‘NOT DISPLAYED’ should be written in this section.

There is no requirement to record the odometer reading history.

Method of writing dates and times

The months of issue and expiry of a test certificate must always be put first followed by the day and year. No space must be left in which figures can be inserted.

Two numbers must always be used in the day of the month. The last 2 figures of the year must also be entered in words to prevent alteration. For example, May 01st 2016 Sixteen.

The time should be shown using the 24-hour clock. For example, 2:40pm should be shown as 14:40.

Expiry date of certificate

The CT20 certificate expiry date must only be 12 months less one day from the date of the test itself irrespective of whether a current test certificate still has time to run or it is an early first test.

When the service is restored, the odometer reading history and any additional time due as a result of permitted early testing will be added automatically to the test record and included on the exchange certificate.

Minor defects and advisories

Record all minor defects and any advisories, numbered sequentially. Defect descriptions must reflect the wording that would be printed if the system was operating normally in order that the information produced on exchange documents after catch up matches the handwritten version produced under CT.

If there is insufficient room then continue on another CT20. Where more than one sheet is required then each should be numbered at the bottom of the page. For example, 1 of 2, 2 of 2.

4. Filling in a CT30 certificate

You must complete the following sections of the CT30 test certificate.

CT number and vehicle details

The CT30 must clearly show the CT incident code and the required vehicle details as described for the CT20.

Defects

Record all defects, including the defect severity (dangerous, major or minor) and any advisories, numbered sequentially. Defect descriptions recorded must reflect the wording that would be printed if the system was operating normally in order that the information produced on exchange documents after catch up matches the handwritten version produced under CT.

If there is insufficient room then continue on another CT30. Where more than one sheet is required then each should be numbered at the bottom of the page - 1 of 2, 2 of 2.

Re-tests

Where a vehicle fails a re-test a new CT30 must be completed. Copies of all CT30 refusal notices must be retained as specified (see Section H. Retention of documentation).

5. Carrying out a contingency testing catch up

Catch up is the process for entering CT test result details onto MOT central records.

Catch up must be completed as soon as the service becomes available again.

After normal service has been resumed, VTSs must ensure that all CT tests carried out have been entered onto MOT central records.

In order to check this, site managers must view or print off the VTS test log and compare this with the test documentation issued during CT.

Once site managers (SMs) are satisfied that this has been correctly done, CT documentation should be retained as specified in Section H. Retention of documentation.

If any outstanding CT tests come to light, these tests must be caught up immediately.

Testers are required to perform catch up for their own tests however another tester at the same VTS may under exceptional circumstances perform catch up tests on behalf of other testers.

Any tester entering results on behalf of another tester should choose ‘other’ on the contingency result entry screen and record the following in the ‘reasons’ box:

• the original tester’s name

• the original tester’s user ID

Incomplete tests prior to contingency testing

If you have registered a test but not completed entering the results when the system fails, when the system returns to normal the incomplete test will still be present. Continue as follows:

• if the date is the same date as when the test was started this test record may be completed by entering the test results etc as noted on contingency paperwork before performing catch up

• if the date is different this test record must be aborted and the test record created via catch up procedures

Errors noted during catch up

In some circumstances an error on a CT certificate may be noted at catch up, for example in trying to match with previous test records you may spot that you have transposed the characters in the VIN. If this happens, record the correct information on the VTS copy of the CT document issued and use the details you now know to be correct to perform catch up.

VTS test log

When the SM considers that all CT tests have been recorded onto MOT central records (catch up) SMs must view or print off the VTS test log. This will enable the SM to check and ensure all tests carried out under CT conditions have been recorded onto MOT testing service.

Exchange CT test documentation

Test documentation issued under CT must be exchanged for printed versions at the original VTS if requested. No charge can be made for this service. The required exchange documents should be produced using the ‘Issue Duplicate Test Documents’ process.

The original test details recorded during CT must be recorded on MOT central records, using catch up, before exchange documents can be printed.

Any returned hand-written test documentation must be retained by the VTS. CT certificates must be marked ‘exchanged’ and stapled to the corresponding copy CT documentation where available.

Changes in testing staff for contingency testing

During any CT incident it will not be possible to appoint and remove testers using the MOT testing service. In such circumstances the DVSA customer service centre must be notified in writing of the full name and user ID of any tester being appointed or removed.

As DVSA may not have access to MOT testing service either, the previous VTS of any incoming tester must be recorded along with the approximate date as to when they last tested.

When the CT incident has ended the VTS must assign the testing role to the tester before the tester will be able to be carried out computerised testing at the VTS and perform catch up of any CT tests that they had carried out.

6.Amending test records and issuing duplicate and replacement certificates when contingency testing

The procedures for producing duplicate certificates, amending test records and issuing replacement certificates vary depending upon:

• the time of the original test
• when the duplicate or test record amendment was requested

If the test was before the CT incident and they request a duplicate certificate, a test record amendment or replacement certificate during the incident

CT certificates must not be used to provide duplicates or replacements of certificates that have already been recorded on MOT testing service.

Test records cannot be amended during CT.

The situation should be explained to the applicant and they should be advised that a computerised document can be produced as soon as the system returns to normal. If the applicant is not satisfied with this response they should be advised to contact the DVSA customer service centre shown on the VT9A fees and appeals poster.

If the test was a CT test and they request a duplicate, a test record amendment or replacement certificate during the incident

A duplicate or replacement for a CT certificate must be completed by hand onto a normal CT certificate.

It must include the additional information. A copy of the replacement certificate must then be attached to the original CT paperwork.

When performing catch up duplicate certificates are not required to be recorded and the original CT certificate should be recorded as normal.

For replacement certificates, the original CT certificate should be marked ‘cancelled’ and the reason for the replacement must be clearly marked. The cancelled certificate must then be attached the original CT paperwork.

When performing catch up enter the new details recorded on the replacement certificate as a normal test.

A duplicate of a CT certificate can only be produced at the VTS who carried out the test but can be completed by any tester at that VTS; the producer must add their signature to the ‘issuer’s signature’ box.

The maximum fee for the duplicate certificate should be that shown on the latest MOT fees poster.

Amendments to the test record and its accompanying replacement certificate must only be issued by a tester, preferably the tester who carried out the original test. The tester must be satisfied that the amendments required are correct and refer to the vehicle that was actually tested.

Test record amendments and replacement certificates are issued free of charge.

If the test was a CT test and they request a duplicate certificate, a test record amendment or replacement certificate after the incident but before a catch up

In the case of a duplicate certificate, where the CT incident is over, but catch up has not yet been carried out, the tester must perform catch up before a computerised duplicate can be issued.

In the case of a replacement certificate, where the CT incident is over, but catch up has not yet been carried out, the tester must be satisfied that the amendments required are correct and refer to the vehicle that was actually tested.

The VTS copy of the CT certificate should be marked with the correct information and where available to customer copy must be retained with the VTS CT paperwork.

The tester must perform catch up entering the details that match the replacement CT certificate as a normal test before a computerised certificate can be issued.

If the test was a CT test and they request a duplicate or replacement certificate after the incident and a catch up

Normal duplicate and replacement procedures apply. See Section H4. Forms.

7. Examples of contingency testing documentation

Example 1 - CT20 contingency test pass certificate

CT certificates are handwritten, using indelible ink, during CT.

Example 2 - CT30 contingency refusal of an MOT test certificate

CT certificates are handwritten, using indelible ink, during CT.

A. Who to train

Trained AE principal (AEP)

Each AE must have one AEP or more who has attained a Level 3 Award in MOT Test Centre Management or have attended the previously named MOT Managers course or Authorised Examiners course.

This course covers testing responsibilities, administrative arrangements, disciplinary and appeal processes. The course is designed to help the AE to fully understand their responsibilities within the MOT Service and the function that is carried out by the AEDM.

If the application to become an AE is from an individual they must attend the course.

If the application is from a partnership, the partner who will exercise the most direct control over all MOT testing operations must attend the course.

If the application is from a company, the director or an officer of the company having the most direct responsibility for all MOT testing operations at all sites, must attend the course.

If the application is from a designated council, then a senior council officer having direct responsibility for all MOT testing operations must be the one to attend the course.

Trained AE designated manager (AEDM)

Each AEDM must attain a Level 3 Award in MOT Test Centre Management or have attended the previously named MOT Managers course or Authorised Examiners course.

Typically, the AEDM would be a person from within the AE, however it may also be a senior manager who has responsibility for testing across the entire AE.

B. Timing of training

Normally, training must be completed before the authorisation can be granted.

In cases where a new authorisation becomes necessary only because a business undergoes one of the changes indicated below, the authorisation can be granted before training has taken place, provided that a suitable person is trained within 35 working days of the change. Failure to complete the necessary training within the specified period will result in cessation. These changes are:

• a sole trader takes on a partner or forms a company of which they are a director
• a partnership splits up, but an untrained partner continues the business as a sole trader
• a partnership splits up, but one untrained partner continues in a new partnership or as a director of a company the same would apply if more than one of the untrained partners stayed with the new partnership or company
• a partnership that had originally applied for authorisation before 1 April 1995, and therefore did not need to have a trained person, is reconstituted by the addition or departure of one partner or more and therefore is now required to have a trained person in the partnership
• a receiver or manager ‘of the body’s undertaking’ is appointed for a company

C. Validity of training

With two exceptions the training is valid indefinitely.

If the AE is subject to cessation

When an AE has been subject to cessation for disciplinary reasons, the AEDM for that AE may be required to attend a further course before again being acceptable as a trained person. If the AEDM is judged to have been directly involved in the incident leading to cessation then retraining will be mandatory.

If the AE is given a formal warning

When an AE is given a formal warning under DVSA’s disciplinary procedures, the AEDM for that AE may be required to attend a further course within 35 working days of the date that the AE is notified of the disciplinary action.

D. Apply for training

A Level 3 Award in MOT test centre management course is booked with a training provider. There is a charge for the course, which varies and is set by the individual course provider.

Find an MOT tester or manager course.

Applicants on the MOT test centre management course must supply photographic identification on attendance at the course.

E. Course content

The course will cover the responsibilities of an AE and knowledge, skills and responsibilities of becoming an MOT manager. It lasts at least 16 hours and has 4 parts which cover:

• how to manage the legislative and compliance requirements of a vehicle test centre

• how to deal with customer service problems within a vehicle test centre

• how to develop and supervise staff within a vehicle test centre

• vehicle test centre quality system and quality audit

Assessments in the course

The course also includes a multiple-choice question test, which must be passed in order to qualify.

The course provider will provide further information on the content and structure of their course.

F. Departure of the trained AEDM from the AE

If a trained MOT manager ceases to perform the AEDM role within an authorisation testing may continue provided that a new AEDM is notified to DVSA and training is then completed within 35 working days of the previous AEDM’s departure. If by the end of that period the company does not have a trained MOT Manager, testing must cease and may not restart until the appropriate person has been trained.

G. Authorised examiners in receivership

Under the regulations a company’s authorisation ceases if “a receiver or manager of the body’s undertaking is appointed” (for simplicity this person will be referred to hereafter as ‘the receiver’). DVSA tries in such circumstances to authorise the receiver as quickly as possible to minimise the upset.

Should the receiver not have attended an MOT managers course, this will not delay their authorisation provided that the receiver (or in the case of large organisations, a senior member of the receiver’s team) completes the MOT managers course within 35 working days of the new authorisation being granted.

1. General

The following information supplements the requirements set out in the appropriate requirements for authorisation.

2. Sign and notices

The three triangles MOT sign detailed in ‘The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016, Schedule 11, diagram 864’ must be displayed in a prominent position, no part higher than 4.5m from the ground and no more than one sign on each road frontage.

The business trading name as described within either the Companies Act 2006 or the Company, Limited Liability Partnership and Business (Names and Trading Disclosures) Regulations 2015 is displayed conspicuously and legibly.

3. Notice board

A notice board must be installed with a protective transparent covering which must be positioned inside the vehicle testing station so that DVSA notices can be easily read by any persons intending to or submitting vehicles for test.

The MOT notice board must not be obscured or be inaccessible and must be of sufficient size to accommodate at least one A3 fees poster (landscape) and one certificate of authorisation (A4 portrait) and must not be used for any other purpose other than official DVSA MOT notices and company public liability insurance and certificates of incorporation.

If the notice board displays both MOT and business documents, there must be clear and distinct separation between the MOT documents and any documents not related to MOT testing.

All authorised examiners (AEs) must also display:

• the certificate of authorisation (VT9) issued by DVSA
• the current fees and appeals poster (form VT9A) showing vehicle classes, test fees and appeals procedure and the details of how to contact DVSA

The current fees and appeals poster may be displayed adjacent to the ‘official’ notice board if it will not fit on the notice board proper. Additional copies of this poster can be obtained online.

4. Equipment calibration

The MOT list of acceptable equipment lists the various makes and models of test equipment that have a measuring capability, such as headlamp aim testers and brake testers. The suitability of other test equipment is individually assessed at each VTS.

Find MOT equipment approved by DVSA.

Equipment maintenance, calibration and records

All testing equipment must be kept in good order and measuring apparatus must be calibrated regularly in accordance with DVSA’s requirements. In all cases calibration records must be kept for a minimum of two years.

In the case where the serial number of the equipment cannot be found the VTS should make up a number, which identifies the equipment, and mark the equipment accordingly. Where a VTS uses an item of test equipment that is awaiting approval, the AE should contact DVSA for advice.

The AE is required to ensure that calibrations are carried out when required. For roller brake testers (RBTs), plate brake testers (PBTs), automated test lane (ATL) weighing facility, motorcycle weighing equipment (where applicable) and headlamp aim testers, the calibration expiry date will be taken as the month end date. For example, a certificate showing an expiry date of 15 July 2024 will be taken as 31 July 2024. See Roller and plate brake testers, ATL and motorcycle weighing facilities, and headlamp aim testers’

RBTs, PBTs, weighing equipment and headlamp aim testers can be calibrated anytime during the six months following its last date of calibration. The equipment is then considered calibrated until the end of the 6th month.

Test equipment must be calibrated and maintained in accordance with DVSA’s requirements. AEs must ensure maintenance and calibration appointments are arranged and carried out in a timely manner to prevent these becoming overdue.

If an item of mandatory test equipment is not re-calibrated – or, in the case of ATL or OPTL steering and suspension play detectors, not inspected – by its due date, then testing which uses that item must stop until the equipment has been recalibrated or inspected.

Testing must also stop if any mandatory item malfunctions in a way that could prevent a test being properly conducted. Testing must not be resumed until the equipment has been properly repaired. If equipment fails during a test but before its use has been completed, the test must be aborted and any fee paid returned.

Maintenance periods

All equipment must be maintained in good working order at all times.

In the case of ATL or one person test lane (OPTL), maintenance periods for steering and suspension play detectors is a minimum of:

• 6 months for pneumatic equipment
• 12 months for hydraulic equipment

Maintenance must be conducted by the manufacturer, manufacturer’s agent, a suitably qualified maintenance engineer or calibration specialist and a maintenance report issued detailing any remedial work conducted.

A signed and dated declaration that the equipment is in good working order must be issued after the maintenance has been completed.

Portable appliance testing

Under Health and Safety legislation (including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998), employers are responsible for the inspecting and testing of all types of electrical equipment in all work situations.

Among other things, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations require that equipment provided for use at work is safe, maintained in a safe condition and, in certain circumstances, inspected to ensure this remains the case.

In particular, the Electricity at Work Regulations place a legal responsibility on employers and employees to comply with the provisions of the regulations and take reasonable steps to ensure that no danger results from the use of electrical equipment.

It is therefore the responsibility of AEs to ensure that all electrical equipment used on their premises, has been tested to ensure that it poses no risk to health and safety.

Frequency and location of calibration

Equipment should be calibrated as follows.

Exhaust gas analysers

The user should make a daily leak check on the hose and probe. Most machines have an automatic facility for doing this. If not, a physical check of the hose and probe must be carried out to confirm that there are no leaks.

Depending on the make or type, exhaust gas analysers must be calibrated every 3, 6 or 12 months. This must be carried out according to the approved procedure by a recognised calibration technician only. An exhaust gas analyser must be calibrated with a certified calibration gas and when the ambient temperature is above 5°C.

Roller brake testers, plate brake testers, ATL and motorcycle weighing facilities, headlamp aim testers

RBTs, PBTs, ATL and motorcycle weighing facilities, and headlamp aim testers can be calibrated anytime during the six months following its last date of calibration. The equipment is then considered calibrated until the end of the 6th month. Where the calibration certificate only states the month and year of expiry, the last day of that month should be taken as the calibration expiry date.

Decelerometers

Decelerometers calibrated prior to 1 April 2023 must be calibrated at intervals not exceeding 2 years.

From 1 April 2023 decelerometers must be calibrated at intervals not exceeding 1 year.

Decelerometers may only be calibrated by:

• the manufacturer
• a calibrator accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS)

Salter brake testers

From 1 April 2023, calibration of Salter brake testers will no longer be acceptable if completed by vehicle testing station (VTS) staff.

Salter brake testers must be calibrated at intervals not exceeding 2 years.

Salter meters can be done by:

• the manufacturer’s local depot if available
• a firm that has taken over responsibility for equipment support from the manufacturer
• a calibration specialist
• a local trading standards office

Tyre tread depth gauges

Tyre tread depth gauges require a periodic accuracy check at least every 6 months. This can be done by placing the base foot onto a flat surface, such as a window glass, and checking that the zero datum’s align.

AEs are to keep a separate record showing the date of the accuracy check.

Diesel smoke meters

Diesel smoke meters should be checked by the user every week.

They should be calibrated every 12 months by a technician accredited by UKAS.

Calibration personnel

Equipment may be calibrated on site only by the following personnel.

Exhaust gas analysers and diesel smoke meters

Exhaust gas analysers and diesel smoke meters should be calibrated by a technician accredited by UKAS. There are two exceptions:

• equipment (non-catalyst or catalyst) with an approved automatic monthly self-gassing facility requires a 12 monthly UKAS calibration with monthly calibrations which may be performed by VTS staff

• non-catalyst OIML Class 1 equipment with an approved self-gassing facility requires a 6 monthly UKAS calibration with an intermediate calibration which may be performed by VTS staff

Roller brake testers, plate brake testers and headlamp aim testers

From 1 April 2023, calibration of brake testers and headlamp testers will no longer be acceptable if completed by vehicle testing station (VTS) staff.

RBTs, PBTs and headlamp aim testers must be calibrated by either:

• the original manufacturer
• firm that has taken over responsibility for equipment support from the manufacturer
• a calibration specialist

ATL and motorcycle weighing facilities

From 1 April 2023, calibration of ATL and motorcycle weighing facilities will no longer be acceptable if completed by vehicle testing station (VTS) staff.

ATL and motorcycle weighing facilities should be calibrated by either:

• the original manufacturer
• a company which has taken over responsibility for equipment support from the manufacturer
• a calibration specialist

Independent calibrators

VTSs employing calibration specialists must satisfy themselves of the technical competence and viability of the company concerned and be able to demonstrate this to DVSA upon request. .

Documentation

In cases where a VTS employs either the manufacturer or a calibration specialist, there must be a written contract and the test station must obtain a certificate for each calibration.

5. Calibration certificates

All certificates must contain:

• a certificate serial number
• details of the equipment, including make, model and serial number
• title and address of calibration company or agency
• signature of calibrator and date of calibration
• smoke meter and gas analyser calibration certificates shall meet the UKAS and DVSA standard agreed

Calibration certificates must include a record of the test load, gauge readings and percentage error. Calibration results may be recorded in kgf or the equivalent in imperial lbs.

Retention

Calibration records must be readily retrievable and be kept for a minimum of two years. Calibration records may be retained digitally or as a hardcopy.

Exhaust gas analysers certificates

Calibration certificates for exhaust gas analysers are normally valid for 3, 6 or 12 months from the date of issue. However, if the certificate is issued no more than 14 days before the expiry of an existing certificate, then the expiry date may be 3, 6 or 12 months from the date of expiry of the old certificate.

Roller brake tester and plate brake tester certificates

Certificates for RBTs and PBTs must include a record of the test load, gauge readings and percentage error. The following limits apply in both forward and reverse operation as applicable.

Minimum values for roller brake testers

The minimum values for roller brake testers are as follows.

Class 1 and 2

If approved before 1 July 1996, the minimum values are:

• 30kgf (66lb)
• 100kgf (220lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)

If approved from 1 July 1996 onwards, the minimum values are:

• 0
• 50kgf (110lb)
• 100kgf (220lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)
• 300kgf (660lb)

Class 3 and 4

If approved before 1 July 1996, the minimum values are:

• 100kgf (220lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)
• 400kgf (880lb)
• 500kgf (1100lb)

If approved from 1 July 1996 onwards, the minimum values are:

• 0
• 100 kgf (220lb)
• 200 kgf (440lb)
• 400 kgf (880lb)
• 600kgf to 800kgf (1320kgf to 1760lb)

Class 5 (all equipment)

For low range, the minimum values are:

• 0
• 100kgf (200lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)
• 400kgf (880lb)
• 600kgf to 800kgf (1320lb to 1760lb)

For high range, the minimum values are:

• 0
• 1200kgf to 1500kgf (2640lb to 3300lb)
• 2000kgf to 2500kgf (4400lb to 5500lb)
• 3500kgf to 4000kgf (7700lb to 8800lb)

Class 7 (all equipment)

The minimum values are:

• 0
• 200kgf (440lb)
• 400kgf (880lb)
• 600kgf to 800kgf (1320lb to 1760lb)
• 1200kgf to 1500kgf (2640lb to 3300lb)

Minimum values for plate brake testers

The minimum values for plate brake testers are as follows.

Class 1 and 2 (all equipment)

The minimum values are:

• 0
• 30kgf (66lb)
• 100kgf (220lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)

Class 3 and 4 all equipment

The minimum values are:

• 0
• 30kgf (66lb)
• 100kgf (220lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)
• 600kgf (1320lb)

Class 7 all equipment

The minimum values are:

• 0
• 100kgf (200lb)
• 200kgf (440lb)
• 600kgf (1320lb)
• 1000kgf (2200lb)

Accuracy of brake force readings

Brake force readings shall be accurate to within:

• +/- 3 kgf (6.6 lb) of the true value from zero up to and including 100kgf

• +/- 3% of the true value for all readings above 1000kgf

Calibration certificates for brake testers are to contain the following (or similar) statement: “This is to certify that the above brake test equipment has been calibrated and is within the limits specified by DVSA”.

ATL weighing facility

Certificates must include a record of the test load, gauge readings and percentage error.

Accuracy to within +/- 3% between 200kg and 3000kg imposed weight traceable to an acceptable quality standard.

Calibration certificates for brake testers and ATL weighing facility are to contain the following (or similar) statement: “This is to certify that the above brake test equipment has been calibrated and is within the limits specified by DVSA”.

Headlamp aim testers

Calibration certificates for headlamp aim testers are to contain the following (or similar) statement: “This is to certify that the above headlamp aim testing equipment has been checked and is in correct alignment with the vehicle standing area”.

Diesel smoke meter

Smoke meters are to be calibrated every 12 months. Calibration certificates are normally valid for 12 months from the date of issue. However, if the certificate is issued no more than one month before the expiry of an existing certificate then the expiry date may be 12 months from the expiry of the old certificate.

A new diesel smoke meter should be supplied with an initial calibration certificate in one of two forms.

It may have a certificate of conformity issued by a BSI/ISO registered company, the meter will have been calibrated as a part of the in-house quality control procedure. It will carry the BSI and/or ISO logos, and will be dated. Within six months of the issue of a Certificate of Conformity a new meter must be calibrated by a UKAS accredited engineer.

Alternatively, it may have a UKAS calibration certificate issued immediately prior to or following delivery by a UKAS Accredited Engineer. Like all other UKAS issued calibration certificates on diesel smoke meters a new meter must be calibrated by a UKAS Accredited Engineer within twelve months of the issue of this certificate.

If you have any questions regarding the certification of a smoke meter, contact the manufacturer or their agent.

Motorcycle weighing facility

Certificates must include a record of the test load, gauge readings and percentage error.

Accuracy should be within +/- 3%.

Calibration certificates for weighing facility are to contain the following (or similar) statement: “This is to certify that the above weighing facility has been calibrated and is within the limits specified by DVSA”.

6. MOT testing service IT and associated equipment

Authorised examiners are responsible for the supply and maintenance of all IT equipment and internet connection used for MOT testing purposes.

PC, iMac and Laptops

The MOT testing service is designed to run on most recent Windows and Mac OS computers and laptops with:

• a 1GHz processor
• 512MB system memory
• 20GB hard drive space
• 1024 by 768 screen resolution or above
• a network cable socket (RJ45) or Wi-Fi

MOT testing service is designed to run on any tablet with screen sizes of 9 inches and above (measured diagonally across the screen).

MOT testing service works on internet connections of 0.5Mbps (512 Kbps) and above.

The internet connection may be via fixed line, 3G, 4G, 5G or satellite.

Browser requirements

A suitable browser is required to view MOT testing service website. One of the following browsers will need to be installed on your device to use MOT Testing Service:

• Chrome (latest version) - supplied by Google and can be used on either Windows, MacOS, iOS and Android
• Firefox (latest version) - supplied by Mozilla and can be used on either Windows or MacOS
• Edge (latest versions) - supplied by Microsoft with its latest IT equipment
• Safari 12 and later - supplied by Apple with its latest IT equipment
• Safari for iOS 12.1 and later - supplied by Apple with its latest mobile equipment
• Samsung Internet (latest version) - can be used on Android operating systems

Printer requirements

An A4 black and white printer is required to print MOT certificates and other documents from the MOT testing service.

All printer consumables, such as paper and ink, are provided by the AE/VTS.

MOT security code

All MOT testing service users with a role assigned to their MOT testing service profile need to enter a security code when signing into MOT testing service. Security codes generated by authentication app or email will be required once a day if the sign in details remain the same.

The 6 digit security code is generated by either:

• authentication app
• email
• security card

Authentication app

Users will use an authentication app installed on their personal smart phone or tablet. This app will be linked to their MOT testing service profile. The app automatically generates the security code and is entered into MOT testing service when required as part of the sign in process

Email

MOT testing service will send a security code to the users unique email address recorded on their MOT testing service profile. A new code is sent when required and is entered as part of the sign in process

Security card

The card generates a new 6 digit code when pressed. A new code is required each time a user signs into MOT testing service. Card holders must not write their user ID or password on the card. Security cards are no longer issued or replaced

7. Complaints about the MOT testing service

Complaints concerning MOT testing service should be made in the first instance via the MOT testing service desk. If the complaint is not resolved the AE should contact the DVSA customer service centre.

Contact DVSA service desk

Contact DVSA customer service centre

1. Training for testers

In addition to meeting the criteria given in Section E2. Eligibility for becoming a tester prospective testers must successfully complete:

• an initial training course that explains the processes of MOT testing and reinforces the standards set out in the relevant inspection manual
• an observed demonstration test for an officer of DVSA

Testers may be required to complete additional training and observed demonstration tests before being allowed to test vehicles in classes that they have not previously been testing.

The following indicates the circumstances in which testers and potential testers are required to attend training courses, annual or additional training and to provide practical demonstrations of their testing competence to DVSA.

Candidates to become a tester

Anyone wanting to become a tester will need to do:

• initial tester training
• a demo test

From the date of issue of a Level 2 Award in MOT testing, a demonstration test must be successfully completed on a vehicle of testable age, within 6 months.

If the request for a demonstration test is over 6 months and up to 5 years from that date, the current years MOT annual training and MOT annual assessment and any additional training must be completed prior to the demonstration. Should this time period exceed 5 years they will need to re-attend initial training.

To continue testing following a formal warning or short term cessation

To continue testing following the issue of a formal warning, disciplinary period of 28 days (short term cessation), or when requested by DVSA, the tester will need to do:

• current year annual training and assessment
• additional training
• a demo test

If the current years training and assessment have already been completed, the tester will not need to redo them. However, if directed, they must take the appropriate additional training where requested within the disciplinary decision letter issued by DVSA and ensure all areas of weakness have been covered. All training must be complete prior to conducting the demonstration test.

Becoming a tester after a disciplinary period of either 2 or 5 years

To become a tester following a disciplinary period of either 2 or 5 years a tester will need to do:

• initial tester training
• a demo test

Testers wishing to add additional test classes

If a tester wants to add an additional test classes 3 and/or 5 to their test group they will need to do:

• additional training
• a demo test

See training requirements for class 3 and 5 vehicles.

Resuming testing following a lapse of 6 months to 5 years

To maintain their testing status, a tester must complete a full MOT test within a 6 month period for each test group they test. If a full test is not completed for either test group, the testers status becomes lapsed for that test group.

Before resuming testing following a lapse of over 6 months and up to 5 years, a tester will need to do:

• current year annual training and assessment
• additional training
• a demo test

Testers who wish to resume testing following a lapse of over 6 months and up to 5 years must complete the current years MOT annual training and MOT annual assessment and any additional training prior to the demonstration test.

Resuming testing following a lapse of 5 years

Before resuming testing following a lapse of 5 years a tester will need to do:

• initial tester training
• a demo test

If a candidate fails the demonstration test

If a tester candidate fails the demonstration test, they cannot reapply for another demonstration test for at least 10 working days to allow them time for further training and practice.

If a tester candidate fails the demonstration test on the second attempt, they cannot apply for a further assessment for 6 months. In addition, they are required to successfully complete the current year’s annual assessment and training prior to phoning the contact centre to arrange their demonstration test.

Any further failures would repeat the 6-month cycle, as such successfully complete the current year’s annual assessment and training. Should this cycle exceed 5 years they will need to re-attend initial training.

Monitoring test standards

To monitor test standards a tester will need to do a demo test when required to do so by DVSA.

Annual training

For annual training, a tester will need to do the current year annual training and assessment for each Group (A and/or B) they test. It is the testers responsibility to ensure that the annual assessment has been uploaded against their MOT Testing Service (MTS) profile

Testers who do not successfully complete the annual assessment and have it recorded against their MTS profile by the 31st of March will have their testing status switched to suspended. If they wish to resume testing, they must complete the current years MOT annual training and MOT annual assessment and any additional training prior to the demonstration test.

See MOT annual training for testers.

2. Test groups

For the purpose of demonstration tests, vehicles are grouped as:

• group A - for all vehicles in class 1 and 2
• group B - for all vehicles in classes 3, 4, 4A, 5, 5A and 7

With group B classes, a demonstration test may be required for each vehicle class within the test group. In some cases, a demonstration test may be observed on one class and the tester questioned about class variation to assess their competency on the other vehicles in this test group.

3. MOT training requirements for testers (all classes)

MOT Tester training is delivered by third party training providers and is paid for by tester candidates.

These qualifications are Level 2 Award in MOT testing in either:

• class 1 and 2 vehicles (group A)
• class 4 and 7 vehicles (group B)

4. Training requirements for testing class 3 and 5 vehicles

Before testing class 3 or 5 vehicles, testers will be required to carry out:

• additional training
• a further demonstration test with DVSA

Contact the IMI or ABC Awards for details of where you can take class 3 and 5 training.

There is a charge for training. Each course provider sets their own price so the costs can vary.

5. MOT annual assessment and training for testers

Testers must complete at least three hours training annually and successfully complete the annual assessment. The annual assessment must be carried out solely by the tester.

If a tester fails the annual assessment, they should not re-sit the annual assessment for 7 calendar days to allow them time to study and review areas that may have caused them concern, this must be recorded on their training log. If that assessment is failed the tester should wait another 7 calendar days before they re-sit the annual assessment again, allowing further time for study.

The 7 calendar days cycle would be repeated if there were continued failures.

How MOT annual training is completed is purely at the discretion of the tester and authorised examiner (AE), which best suits the individual or organisational needs and requirements.

For further information please refer to MOT tester training and annual assessments.

The annual assessment is available from awarding organisations and is a pay per assessment approach. On successful completion of an assessment, the candidate will be provided with a certificate and a record of this assessment is recorded on MOT testing service by the awarding organisation.

When it can be proven that a tester did not complete their annual assessment themselves then DVSA will revoke the result and the tester is required to complete a further annual assessment and demo test before being allowed to return to testing.

6. Recording annual training

Testers are responsible for recording their training log on the MOT testing service (user’s profile page). Entries can only be made in the current training year (1 April to 31 March). These will be available to DVSA to review remotely.

The training record must include:

• the date of the training
• how long the training session lasted
• what topics you covered during the session
• notes on what you did, how you did it and what you learned

AEs must ensure that their testers’ training is up to date. Where a tester is assigned to more than one site, the AE cannot assume that other AEs have ensured the tester training records have been kept up to date.

You have to keep previous paper and electronic records (prior to those recorded on the MOT testing service) for 5 years. These must be made available to DVSA on request.

The training record must include:

• the tester name and user ID
• which groups the training covered
• the date of the training
• how long the training session lasted
• what topics were covered during the session
• notes on what you did, how you did and what you learned

7. Additional training

If the work of a tester reveals shortcomings in the required standards, DVSA may recommend that they carry out additional appropriate training. This may range from reading inspection manuals to sourcing external training support.

This recommendation does not prevent the tester from continuing to test, but failure to act upon it could decrease the value of anything put to DVSA in mitigation should formal disciplinary action against the tester be considered by DVSA within the following five years.

8. Demonstration tests

At various times, testers and prospective testers will be required to carry out an observed demonstration test to show that they are capable of testing in the required manner and applying the required standards.

Assessment of new and returning testers

The assessment of new testers, testers seeking to test additional classes and returning testers following a lapse in testing (see table above) will be scored using a major and minor error approach. Up to 5 questions will also be asked, incorrect answers will be marked as minors. If the demonstration is not completely satisfactory, counselling and advice may be given and written appropriate to the assessment result which will either be pass or fail as set out in Appendix 8.9: Major and minor errors demonstration test table.

Group A (class 1 and 2)

To pass the assessment the tester requires:

• no major errors
• no more than 4 minor errors in total across all sections
• not to exceed the total minors allowed as noted in any one section

Group B (Class 3, 4, 5 and 7)

To pass the assessment the tester requires:

• no major errors
• no more than 6 minor errors in total across all sections
• not to exceed the total minors allowed as noted in any one section

Assessment of continuing competence

A current tester may be requested by DVSA to carry out a demonstration test to monitor test standards and ensure continuing competence. Should this assessment not be completed satisfactorily, counselling may be given and written or disciplinary action may be taken in accordance with the disciplinary procedures (see Section I. Discipline).

Such demonstration tests will be scored using the points system set out in Appendix 8.3: Incorrect test methods.

If the candidate scores no more than 9 points

The assessment is considered to be satisfactory. However, counselling on any shortcomings should be noted.

If the candidate scores 10 to 39 points

The assessment is considered to have displayed minor shortcomings. However, counselling on any shortcomings should be noted and the tester should revise their knowledge and overcome the weaknesses noted. The tester may be required to carry out a further demonstration test for DVSA.

If the candidate scores 40 points or more

The assessment is considered to be unsatisfactory and this may result in disciplinary action.

9. Arranging a demonstration test

A demonstration test is arranged by filling in a demonstration test request form. This is for new or returning testers and testers that need a demo test following a training module to add an additional test class.

Before arranging the demonstration test, the candidate must be satisfied that they can competently test appropriate vehicles, can use the MOT testing service to obtain information, record and confirm test results both directly and indirectly using contingency testing.

Before requesting a demo test a candidate must record their MOT tester qualification certificate details onto the MOT testing service.

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks

A basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check must be submitted for each:

• new tester (or an existing tester adding an additional test group, A or B)
• tester returning after a disciplinary period of 28 days (short term cessation) or a 2 or 5 year cessation
• tester returning after being lapsed or suspended

The DBS check must be dated within the 3 months leading up to the demonstration test.

Submit your DBS consent check code when you apply to book a demonstration test.

If your DBS check shows unspent convictions or you do not have a consent code

You can still book a test if:

• you believe your unspent convictions do not constitute as serious offence as detailed in the convictions and repute section of the MOT testing guide
• you do not have a consent code because you have a basic disclosure certificate in Scotland

After you apply to book your demonstration test, you’ll need to post all pages of your original DBS. Please attach a covering letter with your MOT user id, your full name, the Test Group you are requesting a demonstration test on (Group A classes 1 & 2 Group B 4 & 7) and the date you made the online request. Include a stamped addressed envelope for its return.

Original certificates will be sent back using your stamped address envelope. If you wish to have your documents returned by any other service, such as Royal Mail Special Delivery, you must provide a pre-paid envelope that can be purchased from a Post Office.

The request will be processed and the candidate will be later contacted by a DVSA examiner to arrange the demonstration test.

Ideally, the demonstration test should be carried out within one month of the training course to which it is linked.

At VTSs equipped with an automated test lane (ATL) or one person test lane (OPTL) the demonstration test must be conducted using an assistant with the equipment in the manual mode with additional questioning and/or demonstration to ensure the tester can test with and without an assistant as well as demonstrating competence in equipment operation.

10. Use of the MOT testing service

As part of (or in addition to) the demonstration test testers and prospective testers will be required to demonstrate satisfactorily that they can use the MOT testing service. In order to become a tester or continue to test a tester will be assessed using the criteria in Section E3. Ongoing requirements and on their ability to use the MOT testing service.

Where the satisfactory use of the MOT testing service has not been demonstrated the following action may be taken.

In the case of a prospective tester

Prospective testers will not be allowed to test until they have demonstrated satisfactory use of the MOT testing service.

In the case of an existing tester

Existing testers who have not demonstrated satisfactory use of the MOT testing service will be advised of their shortcoming and recommended that they carry out additional training in the use of the system in order to become proficient.

Contact DVSA

1. Convictions and repute general

Within the MOT scheme, it is important that the DVSA protect the public, DVSA staff, the integrity of the MOT scheme and the Agency. This includes preventing entry and removing any individual who should not be involved in the MOT scheme.

Any individual involved in the MOT scheme must be free of conviction and be of good repute as defined within this appendix.

Any individual involved includes:

• AE principals (AEPs)
• authorised examiner designated managers (AEDMs)
• AE delegates (AEDs),
• site managers (SMs)
• site admin
• testers
• AE consultants (AECs)

2. Convictions general

The DVSA must be notified of all convictions as described in this appendix immediately for any individual involved in the MOT scheme. The responsibility to notify the DVSA of any conviction lies with both the AE and the individual who holds the role in the MOT scheme.

An AE is responsible for making the necessary checks on an individual prior to assigning them any role within their authorisation, ensuring they are free of any convictions as described in this appendix.

All notifications of conviction should be sent directly to MOT administration.

This includes cases where a conviction has taken place, but sentencing is pending.

When a sentence has been applied the notification must include a DBS certificate dated after the conviction. If sentencing has not been completed a court extract (or extract decree for Scottish convictions) must be included with the notification.

When the person has been sentenced, we will require a further DBS certificate (dated after sentencing).

3. Convictions criteria

The DVSA understand that certain convictions can be emotive in nature and as such DVSA will take into consideration any conviction which is defined to be a serious offence.

The DVSA considers a serious offence to be defined as any criminal conviction of an individual or business entity to which that individual had an association to, where any of the following has been imposed:

• a prison sentence (including suspended sentences) of three months or more

• a fine exceeding level 4 on the standard scale (currently £2500)

• a community service order (or equivalent) requiring unpaid work for more than 60 hours

• any punishment outside the UK corresponding to the above

If the conviction does not fall under these categories then the conviction will be considered acceptable for participation within the MOT scheme, unless there are grounds for consideration as part of an individual’s good repute.

4. Authorised examiner convictions outcomes

It is the responsibility of the authorised examiner (AE) to notify the DVSA immediately of any convictions, as described in this appendix, to any individual involved in the MOT scheme under their authorisation, this includes: AEPs (directors, partners and sole traders), AEDMs, AEDs, site managers, site admin and testers.

An AE must notify the DVSA and make the necessary arrangements to remove any individual immediately.

All notifications of conviction should be sent directly to MOT administration.

Once notified the approval to test will be ceased after 28 days unless the person who has the unacceptable conviction is removed or there is enough evidence of an application with continuity with intent to remove the individual.

A person cannot hold any role within the MOT scheme in any capacity until the conviction is considered spent under the relevant/current rehabilitation act.

Please refer to Appendix 8: Disciplinary procedures for all disciplinary outcomes.

5. Tester convictions outcomes

It is the responsibility of the tester to notify the AE and the DVSA immediately of any convictions as described in this appendix which they receive.

All notifications of conviction should be sent directly to MOT administration.

The individual cannot hold any role within the MOT scheme in any capacity until the conviction is considered spent under the relevant/current rehabilitation act.

Refer to Appendix 8: Disciplinary procedures for disciplinary outcomes

6. Failure to notify

Failure to notify the DVSA of any convictions, as described in this appendix, against any individual involved in the MOT scheme that would have resulted in the authorisation not being granted/removed or in the case of a tester the authorisation to test being refused/removed will result in immediate cessation action being taken against the authorisation and/or the tester.

Refer to Appendix 8: Disciplinary procedures for disciplinary outcomes.

7. Repute general

To participate in the MOT scheme any business, authorisation, site and any individuals involved must be of good repute, the DVSA may take into consideration any information available at any time, whether that is during an initial application or on going. The information available can be DVSA generated but can also be from other reputable sources of intelligence, such as but not limited to the police and other government bodies.

The DVSA interprets good repute as the ability to continually meet requirements and expected behaviours within the MOT scheme. Any individual must be a credible professional, any conduct or behaviour that could be considered unacceptable in the eyes of the public or the DVSA may deem a person to no longer being of good repute.

It is the responsibility of all individuals involved to be aware of and adhere to the requirements. The core principles that DVSA consider underpin good repute are:

• Professionalism, the expected skills, judgement and behaviour of someone or a business carrying out a service/job

• Integrity, trust, being honest

• No negligence, failure to take proper care and manage

• Responsibility, accept the results of your actions

• Excellence, strive for quality

• No evidence of repeated criminality or short comings within any DVSA service or scheme

8. Repute considerations

The DVSA can take into consideration any conduct or involvement in activities which could deem a person to no longer being of good repute. Any involvement in such activities or conduct may result in an authorisation to participate in the MOT scheme being declined or removed. This includes if the individual or business was directly involved in the activity/offence or facilitated or commissioned the activity/offence.

This may include but is not limited to:

• previous and/or repeating failures to adhere to MOT testing service rules and/or test standards, regardless of the previous role or disciplinary outcomes

• failure to follow DVSA guidance that has been reasonably requested

• inability of DVSA and/or other enforcement officers to contact those in control of the MOT test station

• failure to supply documents or data that is held and which have been reasonably requested

• production of false documents to DVSA or MOT training providers

• failure to comply with other government agencies such as HM Revenue and Customs or the police

• removing or tampering with emissions equipment

• tampering with a vehicle odometer

• issuing fraudulent MOT certificates

• other poor conduct such as a lack of co-operation or honesty

• repeating criminality

• convictions of the company/business

• fraud

• money laundering

• fronting a garage

When considering repute, the DVSA may also take into consideration any convictions which may not have been considered in the convictions criteria. This would include any case where an individual or business has been convicted of an offence or where relevant intelligence information suggested involvement in relation to, but not limited to the following:

• offences covered by the Fraud Act

• offences covered by the Theft Act

• offences covered by the Misuse of Computers Act

• offences covered by the Money Laundering and Terrorism act

• offences involving violence

• offences of a sexual nature

• offences concerning the operation of a business

• offences involving dishonesty

• offences resulting in incarceration

9.Repute outcomes

The DVSA will take into consideration all the information which is available. A decision on whether an individual and/or authorisation is of good repute will be based on that information.

If it is considered repute is lost disciplinary action may be taken, where it is considered that there is an immediate risk to road safety or the integrity of the MOT testing service immediate cessation action may also be taken.

Refer to Appendix 8: Disciplinary procedures for all disciplinary outcomes.

1. Cessation without previous warning (single offence cessation)

A. Authorised examiners

Normally an authorised examiner’s (AE’s) authorisation will be subject to cessation for disciplinary reasons following a single instance of the types mentioned under sections 1, 2 and 3 below, whether committed by the AE or their employee or agent.

Where fraud has been committed, prosecution may be considered.

Authorisation may also be subject to cessation following a single instance of the types mentioned in sections 4 and 5 below, again whether committed by the AE or their employee or agent.

1. Fraud, dishonesty or gross negligence

For example:

• a tester records a pass or fail test result without personally taking any active part in the examination of the vehicle
• a duplicate VT20 is issued unjustifiably
• unjustified changes are made to a test record
• a bribe is accepted to record a pass result for a vehicle
• the recording of a test result to vehicles which have attended a VTS in which their start and finish test time recorded in the MOT testing service would not allow a full examination to be carried out
• CT20 or CT30 issued for vehicles when there was no contingency testing (CT) incident

2. Conviction

This includes:

• AE principals (AEPs) - directors, partners, and sole traders
• authorised examiner designated managers (AEDMs)
• AE delegates (AEDs)
• site managers (SMs)
• site admin
• testers

3. Repute

4. Other very serious offences

5. Other serious offences

The following single acts may also result in cessation of authorisation. If the circumstances are not considered sufficiently serious to justify single-case cessation then the penalty will be 100 points.

Examples of deliberate obstructive behaviour towards vehicle presenters or DVSA staff or contractors include:

• failure to offer an appointment for a test within a reasonable period of a request, bearing in mind existing test bookings and the availability of the vehicle concerned
• unjustified refusal to test a vehicle presented or to honour, within a reasonable time, an appointment previously made
• refusal to allow a test to be watched
• failure to allow or preventing a reinspection taking place where a reasonable request has been made
• preventing a DVSA activity being conducted, as permitted in the MOT testing guide, that has been reasonably requested

B. Testers

Normally a tester will be subject to cessation if they are personally involved in any act that could lead to single offence cessation of the authorisation of an AE.

Where fraud has been committed, prosecution may be considered.

The points penalties for such acts are listed above for AEs. A tester will also usually be subject to cessation for acts of the type covered below.

Additionally it is normal practice for a tester to be subject to cessation where there are significant procedural omissions (e.g. non-use of designated equipment), and cessation may be applied for a single major incident of substandard testing that could have significant road safety implications.

Penalty points will be calculated from Appendices 8.1 to 8.3 and the action level determined in accordance with Appendix 8.8.

Additional very serious offences for testers

1. Fraud, dishonesty or gross negligence

2. Conviction

3. Repute

4. Other serious offences

2. Incorrect test standards

General

When investigating possible incorrect test standards DVSA will judge what the condition of the particular item would have been at the time of test. Points will be attributed based on what that condition was judged to be.

A single defect will not be double counted. For example, only one score is merited by a single area of corrosion covering adjacent body panels or components within 30cm of two critical components, but two separate areas of corrosion in a similar position draw a double score.

Disciplinary points

Disciplinary points will be awarded as follows for each defect when DVSA judges that the defect was in the condition described below at the time of test.

3. Incorrect test methods

Scoring methods

The following methods are used to report shortcomings noted during an observed test:

Major and minor error scoring method

The major and minor error scoring method will be used for:

• new candidates who have attended a group A or group B testers training course
• testers returning to testing following a 2 or 5 year cessation or following a lapse of 5 years and have successfully re-attended an initial tester training course
• following a lapse in testing of six months
• following the issue of a formal warning, short term cessation or wish to resume testing following a lapse of two years
• when an additional test class is wanted (class 3 or 5)

Shortcomings of method noted during this type of assessment will be scored according to the major and minor errors demonstration table for group A and group B.

Disciplinary points error scoring method

The disciplinary points error scoring method will be used for the assessment of a tester to ensure continuing competence.

Shortcomings of method noted during this type of assessment will be scored according to the point tables for group A and group B.

Where no testable item within a section or sub-section is assessed the section or sub-section scores will be applied.

Retests

The extent of test required is set out in Section B - Testing responsibilities. For such retests, disciplinary points will only be awarded for shortcomings in those parts of the test that you were required to do (excluding non-testable advisories).

Split testing

Split testing occurs when a tester records the test result but only personally assesses some of the testable items. For the remaining items, another person’s assessment is relied upon.

Items assessed by the other person will be considered as not examined, and the maximum points for those items will be limited to 50.

Tester recording the test result

The tester who records the result will be liable for:

• incorrect test methods (whether by the tester or the other person)
• inappropriate standards applied (whether by the tester or the other person)
• items that were not examined at all

The penalty for failing to carry out the part of the test done by the other person will be subject to a maximum of 50 points.

Tester who carries out part of the test

The tester who carries out part of a test but allows another tester to record the test will receive disciplinary points for:

• incorrect test methods in the part they conducted
• incorrect test standards in the part they conducted

The penalty for failing to carry out the part of the test done by the other person will be subject to a maximum of 50 points.

Responsibility for test results

Only the score assigned to the tester who recorded the test result will be considered against the relevant AE (Authorised Examiner).

Seeking advice and guidance

Testers can seek advice from another tester in marginal decisions or when the second tester is more familiar with a particular vehicle type.

However, the tester conducting the test must make the final decision on whether to pass or fail a specific item.

Cases where the tester who recorded the test result had not personally made any of the pass/fail assessments are dealt with under Appendix 8.1.

4. Incorrect operation of testing scheme

General

A graduated sanction level will be applied for shortcomings in this section rather than following the traditional disciplinary points method. The levels will be applied consecutively for each occurrence within a 5-year period. The sanction may increase in severity on each occurrence, within 5 years.

The sanction levels to be applied are as follows.

Level 1 (L1)

Advice will be issued to the AE and/or tester in writing via an MOT advisory warning letter/notice and recorded as an MTS event.

Level 2 (L2)

Testing will be suspended until the case has been answered and rectified satisfactorily. Issued via a temporary suspension notice and recorded as an MTS event.

Level 3 (L3)

A disciplinary case will be submitted for:

• previous or repeating failures to adhere to MOT testing service rules or test standards, regardless of the previous role or disciplinary outcomes
• failure to follow DVSA guidance that has been reasonably requested
• other cases of loss of good repute as defined in Appendix 7: Convictions and repute

Sanctions

The following table lists the graduated sanction level which will be applied to each shortcoming. Where more than one level sanction is noted both will apply.

All items and sanctions will be considered against the AE and/or tester.

A. Equipment calibration and maintenance

The level of action is determined by the number of occurrences of the shortcoming as indicated by levels L1, L2 or L3 in the columns.

Some test equipment requires periodic calibration checks, as defined in Appendix 2: Facilities and security. It is the AE’s responsibility to provide valid calibration records to DVSA staff. Failure to produce these records will result in the following sanctions being applied.

Unless DVSA has been notified that testing has been suspended, test equipment which is clearly malfunctioning, inoperative or missing a mandatory upgrade/inspection, regardless of its calibration status, will also attract the following sanction level.

B. Other items

The level of action is determined by the number of occurrences of the shortcoming as indicated by levels L1, L2 or L3 in the columns.

C. Training

When records cannot be produced, or the produced records do not comply with the listed requirements the shortcomings will be subject to graduated sanctions that are applied to the AE and tester.

The level of action is determined by the number of occurrences of the shortcoming as indicated by levels L1, L2 or L3 in the columns.

5. Not in use

6. Normal sanction levels for testers

There are 4 normal sanction levels for testers:

• advise
• formal warning
• short term cessation
• cessation

Advise

The tester should be given advice if they have between 1 and 39 points from the current case.

Formal warning

The tester will be subject to a formal warning if they have:

• 40 points or more for the current case
• less than 50 points in total from the current case, unspent formal warnings, and unspent short term cessation

Short term cessation

The tester will be subject to a short term cessation if they have:

• 40 points or more for the current case
• between 50 and 99 points in total from the current case, unspent formal warnings and unspent short term cessation

Cessation

The tester will be subject to cessation if they have 500 or more points from Appendix 8.1 for the current case.

The tester will also be subject to cessation if they have:

• 40 points or more for the current case
• 100 points or more in total from the current case, unspent formal warnings, and unspent short term cessation

Formula A

Formula A is the total number of points from:

• the current case
• unspent formal warnings
• unspent short-term cessation.

Formal warnings and short-term cessations become spent after 5 years.

All relevant mitigation will be taken into consideration before deciding on any level of disciplinary action.

7. Normal sanction levels for authorised examiners

There are 4 normal sanction levels for authorised examiners:

• advise
• formal warning
• short term cessation
• cessation

Advise

The AE should be given advice if they have between 1 and 39 points from the current case.

Formal warning

The AE will be subject to a formal warning if they have:

• 40 points or more for the current case
• less than 140 points in total from the current case, unspent formal warnings, and unspent short term cessation

Short term cessation

The AE will be subject to a short term cessation if they have:

• 40 points or more for the current case
• between 140 and 199 points in total from the current case, unspent formal warnings and unspent short term cessation

Cessation

The AE will be subject to cessation if they have 500 or more points from Appendix 8.1 for the current case.

The AE will also be subject to cessation if they have:

• 40 points or more for the current case
• 200 points or more in total from the current case, unspent formal warnings, and unspent short term cessation

Formula A is the total number of points from:

• the current case
• unspent formal warnings
• unspent short-term cessation

Formal warnings and short-term cessations become spent after 5 years.

All relevant mitigation will be taken into consideration before deciding on any level of disciplinary action.

8. Informal hearings

Notes for guidance and code of practice for informal hearings

Informal hearings foreword

These notes explain the procedures for informal hearings which may be held as part of the process of determining appeals from:

• authorised examiners (AE), designated councils (DC), testers and designated council inspectors (DCI) who have been served with a statutory notice of cessation of their authorisation, designation or approval to test
• applicants who have been served with a notice of intent to refuse their application for authorisation, designation or approval to test

These notes should be read in conjunction with Section D. Requirements for authorisation, Section E. Tester and Section I. Discipline.

The statutory requirements in relation to appeals are contained in the Motor Vehicles (Tests) Regulations 1981 as amended. The regulations provide that where those who have been served with a statutory notice wish to make representations to the effect that either:

• their authorisation, designation or approval should not cease or should be restored
• their application for authorisation, designation or approval to test should be approved

they should make such representations in writing within 14 days from the date of the notice (regulations 10 (1) (c) and 8 (9) respectively). All written representations or statements should fully set out your case and all the evidence you wish to rely upon. The availability of informal hearings does not affect the terms of the regulations.

Informal hearings provide an additional process whereby cases may be put personally to officials in DVSA’s appeals section.

Requests for a hearing

Requests for a hearing are at the discretion of DVSA and may be granted if there are exceptional circumstances.

If you wish to present your case at a hearing, you should submit your request preferably to the email address on the decision letter. We will accept postal hearing requests, however, this might cause a delay in processing the appeal if you use this method.

This request must be submitted as soon as possible after you have received the notice of cessation or intent to refuse to authorise, approve or designate. If a date for the hearing is offered by the Appeals team, you will be permitted to refuse the first date offered.

Who may attend the hearing

You may attend and/or be represented by your trade association, consultant or legal representative. The appeals section may arrange for DVSA personnel involved in the disciplinary or intended refusal action to attend the hearing where their evidence is at issue.

Prior to the hearing

An important element of this procedure is that the appeals officer must be fully aware of the relevant issues and arguments so that they can properly lead the discussion. Your written representations or statement should contain full particulars of the case you wish to make at the hearing including a list of any documents to which you wish to refer.

The provision of your written representations or statement within 14 days of the issue of the notice of cessation or intent to refuse is a necessary procedure. If you are appealing against a notice of cessation you may however, within the 14 day period, state in writing that you wish to rely, at hearing, on the written representations made earlier to the DVSA office that issued the decision.

To assist you the grounds of appeal have been categorised. The following list is not exhaustive, and it is recognised that there are some overlapping grounds:

• the disciplinary procedures have not been followed by DVSA at each and every stage
• the technical evidence is disputed
• other evidence is disputed
• the wrong interpretation has been placed upon the facts
• the sanction imposed and/or the number of disciplinary points allotted is not in accordance with the MOT testing guide
• the penalty is not proportionate to the offence
• there are mitigating circumstances
• the intent to refuse is unreasonable

The venue

Appeals will, where possible, be heard via Microsoft Teams. In extreme circumstances where this is not possible, we will consider conducting them in person at a mutually convenient location.

The hearing will be held by a senior officer of the appeals team who will have a thorough knowledge of the MOT service and the relevant procedures. The procedures will be fully explained to you at the start of, and throughout, the hearing.

The appeals officer will first set out the case as it appears from their reading of the papers, outlining what they consider are the main issues. In some cases, this might take the form of an agenda. They will also indicate those matters on which further information is needed. This will not preclude you from referring to other aspects you consider to be relevant.

All evidence will have been disclosed beforehand so that you will have had time to understand it and it will not normally be necessary to read this out at the hearing. If further documents are made available at the hearing the appeals officer may ask or allow questions on any points which emerge which may need further information or clarification.

The hearing will take the form of a discussion which you or your representative will be invited to start. You may, if you wish, decline to do so. The parties will be encouraged to ask questions informally throughout the proceedings, subject only to the discussion being conducted in an orderly manner.

Cross-examination will not be permitted unless the appeals officer considers that cross-examination is required to ensure a thorough examination of the main issues. You will be given the opportunity to make any final comments before the hearing is closed.

If a hearing needs to be adjourned this will be at the discretion of the officer holding the hearing. If a date for the resumption of the hearing cannot be set at the time of the adjournment, the date will be notified to the appellant within 5 working days.

The appeals officer may close the proceedings if, at any time during the hearing, matters are in their judgement not progressing satisfactorily. The appeal will then be determined on the basis of any written representations submitted. Full reasons for the closure of the hearing will be given in the appeal decision letter.

A recording will be made of the hearing (audio only). A copy of the recording and a transcript will be available as evidence in the event of subsequent court proceedings.

The decision

Decisions will not be made at the hearing as they are made by DVSA’s chief executive on behalf of the Secretary of State. The administrative target for determining appeals after hearings will be the same as that for appeals determined by written representations - 95% of appeals to be determined within 5 weeks.

In the case of written representations, the target date is calculated from the date the written representations are received. The target date following a hearing will be calculated from the date of the hearing. The decision letter will be issued by the appeals section on the date the appeal is determined.

Notice of cessation - effective date of cessation

If you wish your case to be heard at a hearing you should bear in mind that it is unlikely that your appeal can be determined prior to the notice of cessation becoming effective. The date the notice comes into effect cannot be deferred pending the outcome of the appeal. Whilst the appeals section will try to determine your appeal as quickly as possible, there may be a period during which you/your testing station must cease testing pending the determination of the appeal.

9. Major and minor errors for class 1 and 2 (group A) demonstration tests

The following tables are for use during observed demonstration tests.

For further details see Appendix 6.8: Demonstration tests.

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not. Testers will also be asked questions on procedures, standards, and vehicles classes within this test group.

Section 0 - Identification of vehicles

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Rear registration plates

Vehicle identification number - VIN

Section 1 - Brakes

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Brake controls

Brake systems

Use of equipment

Brake performance checks

Roller brake tester

Sidecar brake, if applicable

Brake fluid reservoir

Section 2 - Steering

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Steering controls

Steering system

Wheel alignment

Section 4 - Lamps and reflectors

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Headlight aim and use of headlamp aim equipment

Lights including, headlamps, front and rear position lamps, stop lamp, indicators, reflectors , number plate lamps

Lighting switch(es), indicator switch and tell-tale(s)

Section 5 - Wheels, tyres and suspension

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Wheel bearings

Wheels

Tyres

Sidecar when fitted

Suspension

Section 6 - Structure and attachments

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Exhaust system

Fuel system

Transmission

Engine mountings (only when engine is a stressed member)

Seats

Clutch and throttle controls

Footrests

Section 7 - Audible warning

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Section 8 - Nuisance

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

10. Major and minor errors for class 3, 4, 5 and 7 (group B) demonstration tests

The following tables are for use during observed demonstration tests.

For further details see Appendix 6.8: Demonstration tests.

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not. Testers will also be asked questions on procedures, standards, and vehicles classes within this test group.

Section 0 - Identification of vehicles

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Vehicle identification number

Section 1 - Brakes

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Parking brake mechanism

For class 5, you should also refer to Section 11.

Service brake mechanism, servo, ABS, ESC system

Prescribed areas

Use of equipment

Performance checks

Section 2 - Steering

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Steering control and system

For class 5, you should also refer to Section 11.

Steering system

Section 3 - Visibility

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

View to rear

For class 5, you should also refer to Section 11.

Wiper and washers system

View to the front, windscreen and view of obligatory exterior mirrors

Wiper blades

Exterior mirrors

Bonnet

Section 4 - Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Lighting switch(s), indicator switch and tell-tale(s)

Lights including front and rear position lamps, stop lamps, indicators, reflectors, DRL’s, reversing lamps, front fog lamps, marker lamps where appropriate

Headlight aim and use of headlamp aim equipment

Electrical wiring and battery

Section 5 - Axles, wheels tyres and suspension

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Jacking of vehicle – front

For class 5, you should also refer to Section 11.

Wheel bearings – front

Jacking of vehicle – rear (N/A for large vehicles DGW over 5000kg)

Wheels

Tyres

Suspension

Shock absorbers

Section 6 - Body structure and attachments

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Structure and attachments

For class 5, you should also refer to section 11.

Exhaust

Fuel system including cap(s)

Bumper

External Spare wheel carrier (if fitted)

Coupling mechanisms and towing equipment

Transmission

Engine mountings

Body and interior

This inspection is for all vehicles and includes:

Cab and body mounting (vehicles with a separate body and/or cab)

Check cab/body for:

Doors (drivers, passengers & emergency doors/exits)

Check:

Seats

Cab steps (If fitted)

Handgrips and footrests (quads and trikes)

Section 7 - Other equipment

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (SRS)

Anti-theft device (if appropriate)

Audible warning horn

Speedometer

Electronic stability control (ESC)

Section 8 - Nuisance

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Engine emissions control equipment

Use of equipment - emission procedure

Test pre-checks

Fluid leaks

Section 9 - Supplementary tests for buses and coaches

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Doors

Passenger grab handles

Steps and Stairs

Section 10 - Seat belt installation checks

Notes only.

Section 11 - Additional information for class 5 vehicles

The tester should personally assess the following items during a demonstration test. They will be awarded major or minor errors if they do not.

Driving controls

Brake performance

Steering

Visibility

11. Disciplinary points for class 1 and 2 (group A)

1. Using the designated MOT inspection area

2. Using an assistant

3. Sit on machine

The tester should personally assess the following items. They will be awarded disciplinary points if they do not.

4. Checks made at the front of the machine

4.1 Failure to raise the front of the machine

The tester should personally assess the following items. They will be awarded disciplinary points if they do not.

4.2 Further checks at the front of the machine

The tester should personally assess the following items. They will be awarded disciplinary points if they do not.

The tester should use the following resources. They will be awarded disciplinary points if they do not.

5. Sides of the machine

The tester should personally assess the following items. They will be awarded disciplinary points if they do not.

6. Checks made at the rear of the machine

6.1 Failure to raise the rear of the machine from the floor

The tester should personally assess the following items. They will be awarded disciplinary points if they do not.

6.2 Further checks at the rear of the machine

The tester should personally assess the following items. They will be awarded disciplinary points if they do not.

7. Brake test

The tester should personally assess the following items. They will be awarded disciplinary points if they do not.

8. Sidecar, when fitted

The tester should personally assess the following items. They will be awarded disciplinary points if they do not.

12. Disciplinary points for class 3, 4, 5 and 7 (group B)

1. Interior

The tester should personally assess the following items. They will be awarded disciplinary points if they do not.