For many MOT Test Centres, an unexpected visit from the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) can feel intimidating. Whether it’s a routine site review, a compliance inspection, or a more detailed investigation, how you handle the visit can have a huge impact on your business.
At Pro-Tech MOT & Automotive Academy, we not only train MOT Testers and Managers — we also help garages understand how to stay compliant on a day-to-day basis. Here’s our practical checklist for handling a DVSA visit with confidence.
Why DVSA Might Visit Your MOT Test Centre
DVSA Vehicle Examiners may attend your site for several reasons:
- Routine MOT compliance surveys
- Reviewing your MOT test logs and quality information reports
- Investigating complaints or irregularities
- Following up on Quality Control (QC) issues
- Checking your site’s risk rating
👉 And remember — DVSA can arrive without notice. Preparation is everything.
DVSA Visit Checklist
When DVSA arrive at your MOT Test Centre, follow these steps:
âś… Stay professional and calm
Always greet the examiner respectfully and cooperate fully. A professional attitude sets the tone for the visit.
âś… Verify credentials
Ask to see their DVSA warrant card and record their details in your visitor log.
âś… Provide access to MOT records
Ensure your MOT testing bay, MOT test logs, and calibration certificates are accessible and up to date.
âś… Keep MOT QC Checks ready
Have the following documentation to hand:
- MOT site records
- QC check records
- Tester annual training certificates
- AEDM / MOT Manager documentation
âś… Record the visit yourself
Take notes of who attended, what was reviewed, and any actions required. This creates your own audit trail.
The Role of MOT QC Checks in Compliance
One of the first things DVSA will look at is your MOT QC Checks. They want to see evidence that:
- QC checks are carried out regularly
- Issues are identified and corrected
- Testers are confident in one-person testing routines
⚠️ All new MOT Testers complete their training using a two-person MOT routine, but in reality, DVSA expect you to be fully competent with one-person testing. Failing to adapt is one of the most common reasons for QC shortfalls.
Common Issues DVSA Highlight
During site reviews, DVSA often raise concerns such as:
- Missing or incomplete QC checks
- MOT test logs not being interrogated
- Weak one-person testing routines
- Missing annual training evidence
- Poor site record-keeping
If serious issues are found, DVSA can issue warnings, points, or suspend your MOT testing approval – all of which can have a major impact on your business.
How Pro-Tech Can Help
At Pro-Tech MOT & Automotive Academy, we prepare you with the right training, knowledge, and processes to face DVSA visits with confidence.
But we know that compliance isn’t just about passing your courses — it’s about ongoing support, reviews, and having someone in your corner when DVSA arrive. That’s why we developed MOT Assist.
Stay Ahead with MOT Assist
MOT Assist is designed to provide MOT Test Stations and independent MOT Testers with full access to the industry’s leading MOT Consultants for a small annual fee. Costing less than 3 MOT Tests for 12-months cover, MOT Assist provides security and peace of mind to MOT Test Stations in the event of any DVSA action or investigation.
Benefits of joining MOT Assist include:
- A dedicated 24/7 contact number for immediate support
- Full written representation by the UK’s leading MOT Consultants, right through to completion — including assurances and DVSA interview attendance if required
- Member-only discounts on site reviews, Quality Control Checks, and IMI MOT Training Courses with Pro-Tech
- A membership welcome pack, including a card for easy reference
With MOT Assist in your corner, you’ll have expert support before, during, and after any DVSA visit giving you peace of mind and confidence to focus on running your garage.
Final Thoughts
With MOT Assist in your corner, you’ll have expert support before, during, and after any DVSA visit giving you peace of mind and confidence to focus on running your garage.
Do you have MOT Assist in your corner?
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 , call our team on 01283 734427 or visit our specialist MOT Assist website at www.motassist.com
