Why CPD is critical for MOT Testers

As an MOT Tester, ensuring the safety and compliance of vehicles is critical, no one wants to send an unroadworthy vehicle back out into the wild. The results could be deadly. It’s why in order to fulfil professional responsibilities and maintain a reputation as a trusted and accurate tester, it’s crucial to stay up to date with the latest regulations and best practices.

This is where Continuing Professional Development (CPD) comes in.

CPD is important for several reasons. Firstly, it can help advance your career by keeping your skills and knowledge up to date, thereby increasing your competitiveness and chances of career advancement. Secondly, it can aid in professional growth by expanding your knowledge and skillset, leading to greater job satisfaction and a sense of achievement.

In addition, many professions have a requirement to complete a certain amount of CPD annually to maintain their professional accreditation or license. This is particularly relevant for MOT Testers who must keep up to date with the latest changes and regulations in the industry. CPD can also help professionals stay informed about changes in their industry and adapt to new technologies, regulations, and best practices.

Every year, the MOT Annual Assessment covers a variety of subjects, such as brake test procedures, managing MOT accounts, test procedures, and navigating the test manual.

Staying on top of the CPD you do is important, MOT Testers need to keep records of their CPD for a minimum of five years. These records should include:
 

• MOT annual training year
• The date of training
• The length of the training session
• The topics covered
• Notes on what was learnt and how it was done, and the groups of vehicles covered.
• Additionally, the tester’s name and MOT test number should be recorded.

If a training log isn’t kept or doesn’t match the requirements, the Authorised Examiner and the Tester will be subject to graduated sanctions. This highlights the importance of keeping accurate and up-to-date records of CPD.

You might be sat there thinking CPD isn’t important, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving the quality of services and standards in various professions, including MOT testing. By staying up to date with the latest regulations, best practices, and technologies, MOT Testers can ensure the safety and compliance of vehicles and maintain their reputation as trusted and accurate testers.

And as we head towards the deadline for the annual MOT assessment (it’s the 31st March if it isn’t already drilled into your sub-consciousness) it’s crucial that you prepare so you don’t lose the ability to carry out MOT tests. The IMI can help and has a range of content to help you navigate the process.