MOT Annual Assessments outstanding for 40% of testers - despite looming 31st March deadline

Surge in MOT test bookings puts testers under pressure to stay compliant

Motorists are being warned that a surge in demand for MOT tests this March could see them struggle to get their MOT renewed or obtain a first MOT*. However, the Institute of Motor Industry (IMI) is warning there could be another challenge on the horizon for drivers – finding a legally compliant MOT tester after the 31st March deadline for testers to complete their annual assessment.

Significant numbers of MOT testers are working full throttle to ensure unusually high demand for MOT renewals is met this March – a direct consequence of the MOT extension issued in 2020 at the height of the pandemic. But this additional workload could have considerable longer-term ramifications on garage income, as well as road safety, if testers fail to meet the MOT Annual Assessment deadline.

Despite reminders to testers from the IMI that they need to complete this assessment by 31st March - or face suspension from testing – DVSA data reveals that over 40% the UK’s MOT testers are currently not compliant. Recognising the need to increase support, the IMI has launched a dedicated webpage providing a library of MOT Useful Resources for testers. It is also holding a series of Late Shift Clinics throughout March, including a final clinic, 31st March at 8pm.

Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI said: “The pressure really is on MOT testers, with many working over and above to ensure they keep their customers legally on the road. However, by failing to prioritise their MOT Annual Assessment they could undo their fantastic efforts. If the Thursday 31st March deadline is not met, they will need to be able to competently demonstrate to a DVSA representative their ability to carry out an MOT assessment on a vehicle. This will be conducted face-to-face at the tester’s place of work, but with so many testers potentially failing to be compliant by the deadline, they could be waiting some considerable time before a DVSA representative reaches their workshop.”

In January, the DVSA announced it would not be extending the annual training year this year, a measure it had previously offered in order to help the industry recover from COVID-19. It has also confirmed that technicians who do not complete this year’s MOT Annual Assessment by midnight Thursday 31 March 2022 will be suspended from testing.

The IMI’s MOT Training and Assessment package has been designed with convenience in mind for testers, offering bite-size e-Learning training modules that can been completed at a time that suits them. Crucially, recognising the DVSA’s requirement of an 80% pass rate, the IMI course gives testers the unique opportunity to take the assessment twice to improve their score if needed.

In addition to its e-Learning programme, the IMI also has an IMI Approved Network across the UK which offers MOT qualifications, CPD and assessment solutions, further limiting reasons for MOT testers to fail to meet their legal obligations.

Once the IMI MOT Training and Assessment is completed, MOT testers can opt-in to receive free membership to the IMI. Plus, they have access to the IMI community platform to utilise new and relevant resources to continue their learning plus helpful tips and tools. To find out more, visit https://www.theimi.org.uk/mot-quals/.

For more information on the Late Shift Clinics’ contact the IMI team on 01992 519025

_{*DVSA predictions for March 2022.}