Run an MOT Testing Station

MOT test fees

Maximum fees are set by regulation. You can charge less than the maximum, but never more. Overcharging is a disciplinary matter.

DVSA fees

You pay DVSA a slot fee for each test pass. Slots must be purchased in advance - you cannot conduct tests without available slots.

Equipment calibration

Your testing equipment must be calibrated at the intervals specified in the MOT Testing Guide. Using uncalibrated equipment is a disciplinary offence. Keep calibration records for at least 2 years.

Connected equipment

Since May 2021, brake testers, decelerometers, exhaust analysers, and diesel smoke meters must transmit results directly to the MOT testing service. If your equipment cannot connect, you cannot record test results.

Managing your testers

As AE, you're responsible for ensuring your testers maintain their qualifications. The training year runs from 1 April to 31 March.

Quality control checks

You must conduct quality control (QC) checks on each tester at least once every 2 months. QC checks involve observing a test or reviewing recent tests for consistency with DVSA standards. Document each check and address any issues found.

If a tester fails their annual assessment, they cannot conduct MOT tests until they resit and pass. Plan ahead - the 7-day wait between attempts can disrupt your testing capacity.

DVSA compliance inspections

DVSA conducts risk-based inspections of testing stations. You may receive:

• Announced inspections - you'll receive notice, typically for routine compliance checks
• Unannounced inspections - no warning, often following complaints or pattern analysis
• Mystery shopper tests - DVSA-arranged vehicles with known faults to test your standards

During inspections, the assessor will check equipment calibration, premises conditions, record keeping, and may observe tests in progress. Cooperate fully - obstruction is itself a disciplinary matter.

Disciplinary points system

DVSA operates a points-based system for non-compliance. Points accumulate and trigger increasingly serious consequences.

What triggers points

Common reasons for disciplinary points include:

• Equipment calibration overdue (2-5 points per item)
• Testing with uncalibrated equipment (higher points)
• Inadequate premises maintenance
• Testing defects missed (varies by severity)
• Incorrect test result recording
• QC checks not conducted or documented

Serious issues like fraud, bribery, or testing vehicles not presented for test result in immediate 500-point allocation and likely criminal prosecution.

Avoiding common problems

Most disciplinary issues stem from administrative lapses rather than deliberate wrongdoing:

• Set calendar reminders for calibration dates, tester training deadlines, and QC check schedules
• Check equipment daily before testing begins - brake tester zero points, headlamp aim, emissions analyser warm-up
• Document everything - if it's not recorded, it didn't happen as far as DVSA is concerned
• Review test data for patterns that might indicate tester issues before DVSA spots them
• Act on fit notes - if a tester is unwell, don't let them test vehicles that require physical inspection

Responding to inspection findings

If DVSA identifies issues during an inspection:

1. Within 7 days - Review the inspection report carefully. Points are assigned immediately but you can respond.
2. Within 28 days - Submit a remedial action plan addressing each issue found.
3. Implement corrections - Fix equipment, retrain staff, update procedures as needed.
4. Document completion - Keep evidence of remedial actions taken.

DVSA may conduct a follow-up inspection to verify corrections. If issues persist, further points or suspension may follow.

Insurance and safety requirements

Beyond DVSA requirements, you must comply with general workplace safety regulations:

Workshop environmental and safety compliance

Vehicle repair premises have specific HSE and environmental requirements beyond those for MOT testing:

Vehicle lifts

Vehicle lifts are lifting equipment under LOLER and require thorough examination every 6 months because people work beneath raised vehicles. Use a competent person - typically an insurance company engineer or independent examiner.