Set Up an MOT Testing Station

Guide summary

You must apply to DVSA to become an Authorised Examiner (AE) before you can run MOT tests. You need suitable premises, approved equipment, and trained staff. DVSA will inspect your site before approving you. Operating without authorisation is a criminal offence with an unlimited fine.

Apply to DVSA for Authorised Examiner status
Appoint a qualified Designated Manager for your site
Train Nominated Testers through DVSA courses
Get mandatory equipment: brake tester, emissions analyser, headlamp tester
Pass a DVSA site inspection before you can test
Pay the application fee and equipment calibration costs
Keep equipment calibrated and staff trained for annual inspections
Set MOT fees at or below the government maximum for Class 4
Operating without authorisation can lead to an unlimited fine
Contact DVA instead of DVSA if you are in Northern Ireland

To conduct MOT tests, you must become an Authorised Examiner (AE) approved by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). This requires suitable premises, approved equipment, and qualified staff.

MOT Testing Station Requirements

DVSA Authorised Examiner registration, fees and equipment requirements

Authorised Examiner (AE) application: Apply to DVSA to become approved MOT testing station
Designated Manager (DM): Each AE must appoint a qualified Designated Manager
Nominated Tester: Testers must complete DVSA training and certification
Minimum equipment - Class 4: Brake tester, emissions analyzer, headlamp aim tester (cars)
Minimum equipment - Class 7: As Class 4 plus capacity for higher weight vehicles (vans)
DVSA site inspection: Mandatory pre-authorisation inspection of premises and equipment
Annual DVSA inspection: Risk-based frequency of ongoing compliance inspections
MOT test fees (Class 4): Maximum chargeable fee set by government
Penalty for unauthorised testing: Criminal offence - unlimited fine
Northern Ireland (DVA): Different agency and processes apply - DVA not DVSA

Set Up an MOT Testing Station

Step-by-step process for becoming a DVSA Authorised Examiner

Step 1: Meet premises requirements: Ensure your garage meets DVSA requirements for space, lighting, ventilation, and vehicle access.
Step 2: Acquire mandatory equipment: Purchase approved brake tester, emissions analyzer, headlamp aim tester, and other equipment for your test classes.
Step 3: Appoint Designated Manager: DM must be qualified and able to manage MOT operations and quality control.
Step 4: Train Nominated Testers: Testers must complete DVSA MOT tester training and certification courses.
Step 5: Apply to DVSA for AE status: Submit application with business details, premises information, equipment list, and staff qualifications.
Step 6: DVSA site assessment: DVSA inspector will visit to verify premises, equipment, and staff meet requirements.
Step 7: Pay application fees: Pay AE application fee and any equipment calibration costs.
Step 8: Receive AE authorisation: If approved, receive AE authorisation number and testing site ID.
Step 9: Register on MOT system: Set up access to DVSA MOT testing system for recording tests.
Step 10: Maintain ongoing compliance: Keep equipment calibrated, staff trained, and prepare for annual DVSA inspections.

Running a wider repair business too? See which motor trade rules apply to your business and run a vehicle repair garage or MOT station for the broader garage duties (F-gas, hazardous waste, health and safety).

Legal basis

Primary legislation and key regulations

Road Traffic Act 1988 Primary 1988 · UK-wide Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 SI 1986 · UK-wide

Browse UK legislation legislation.gov.uk

Official guidance

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Publication · DVSA

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DVLA

Set Up an MOT Testing Station

Legal basis

Official guidance

Related guides in Vehicle Compliance

Vehicle Type Approval

Vehicle Maintenance and MOT

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Run an MOT Testing Station

Vehicle Dealer Regulation