MOT Tester / Authorised Examiner Compliance Basics
Keep your MOT testing authorisation in good order. Key rules, record-keeping, and staying compliant as an AE or tester.
MOT testing is regulated by DVSA. Authorised Examiners (AEs) and MOT testers must follow the rules on equipment, record-keeping, testing standards, and conduct. Breaches can lead to disciplinary action, loss of authorisation, or prosecution. This guide summarises the main compliance basics—it’s not a full replacement for the DVSA guidance and your AE responsibilities; use it as a checklist and stay up to date with official sources.
Official sources are definitive
1. Premises and equipment
Your testing premises and equipment must meet DVSA requirements—lift or pit, lighting, signage, and approved test equipment (e.g. brake tester, headlamp aim, emissions kit) that’s calibrated and in date. Failures or gaps in equipment can lead to suspension. Keep calibration records and maintenance logs; ensure testers know how to use equipment correctly and report faults.
2. Testers: training and standards
MOT testers must hold current MOT tester status, complete annual training and assessment, and follow the MOT Testing Guide. They must test to the correct standards, use the testing service correctly, and not conduct tests when their authorisation has lapsed or been suspended. The AE is responsible for ensuring only authorised testers carry out tests and that they’re properly supervised and trained.
3. Record-keeping and VTS
You must keep MOT records as required by DVSA—test results, VT documents, and any other specified data—for the required retention period. The Vehicle Testing Station (VTS) and testing service must be used in line with the terms of use. Tampering with records, testing vehicles you shouldn’t (e.g. not to standard, wrong tester), or failing to retain records can lead to disciplinary action.
4. Integrity and conflicts
Testers must not pass vehicles that don’t meet the standard, or fail them for improper reasons. Carrying out repairs and then testing the same vehicle can create a conflict—DVSA have rules on "same-day repair and test" and when repairs must be done by someone else or in a way that preserves independence. Familiarise yourself with the current rules and ensure your processes and record-keeping support compliance.
5. Stay up to date
DVSA change testing standards, equipment requirements, and procedures. Subscribe to DVSA updates, ensure testers complete annual training, and review your systems when guidance changes. Keeping premises, equipment, and training in order is the best way to avoid suspension or loss of authorisation.