Completing the MOT Tester Annual Training and online assessment before the March 31st deadline is crucial for all MOT testers. Failure to do so can lead to immediate suspension from testing duties, financial losses, and operational disruptions. In 2024, a significant number of testers missed the deadline, highlighting the importance of timely compliance.
What Is the MOT Tester Annual Training?
The MOT Tester Annual Training ensures that testers remain updated on the latest standards and procedures. Testers must complete at least three hours of training annually, followed by an assessment comprising 30 multiple-choice questions, with a required pass mark of 80%.
Consequences of Missing the Deadline
Suspension from Testing: Testers who do not complete the training and assessment by March 31st are suspended from conducting MOT tests until they fulfill the requirements.
Requalification Process: Suspended testers must complete the pending training and assessment and will need to undergo a face-to-face demonstration test with a DVSA representative.
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check: As of January 8, 2024, testers returning after a lapse or suspension are required to submit a recent basic DBS check, which can take several weeks to process.
Impact on Businesses
Financial Loss: Each day an MOT Tester is suspended results in lost revenue from MOT tests and potential additional repair services.
Operational Disruptions: Garages may face scheduling challenges, increased workload on compliant testers, and potential loss of customers to competitors.
2024 Compliance Statistics
In January 2024, it was reported that approximately 73% of MOT testers had yet to complete their annual assessment, underscoring a significant compliance gap that we believe, anecdotally, has not been resolved in 2025.
Why Complete the Training Early?
Flexibility: Early completion allows testers to address any unforeseen issues without the pressure of looming deadlines.
Avoiding Last-Minute Complications: Timely training helps prevent delays associated with processing DBS checks or scheduling demonstration tests.
Maintaining Business Continuity: Ensuring all testers are compliant prevents operational disruptions and sustains customer trust.
Align with DVSA Expectations: DVSA encourages MOT Annual Training to be completed within the first three quarters of the training year to ensure testers stay up to date with the latest regulations and best practices well before the deadline.
Pro-Tech Can Help!
At Pro-Tech we still have some spaces available for this year’s training and are willing to work with you to get your team through their training needs in order to minimise disruption to your business.
We are also happy to discuss getting the training booked in for next year. This gives you the most flexibility to complete it at a time that suits you and your team. Don't wait until the last minute—secure your slot today to avoid unnecessary stress and costs!
Final Thoughts
Procrastination can lead to significant setbacks. By prioritising and completing the MOT Tester Annual Training and online assessment well before the March 31st deadline, testers and businesses can ensure uninterrupted operations, financial stability, and continued customer satisfaction.
Note: The information provided is based on the latest available data as of March 2025. For the most current guidelines and requirements, always refer to official DVSA communications.
Ready to get your training out of the way so you can focus on the work at hand? Explore the available dates - and if you're sorted for this year let's get next year in the diary now!
Experience the difference with Pro-Tech MOT & Automotive Academy. I’d love to connect with you and talk about how we can help to support you in driving your business further.
Get in touch at info@pro-techacademy.co.uk or call our team on 01283 734427.
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