MOT tester shortage could lead to test delays, warns IMI

By Matt de Prez

4 March 2022

A shortage of MOT testers could lead to longer waiting times for tests in April, according to the IMI.

DVSA data, analysed by the IMI, shows that more than 40% the UK’s MOT testers need to complete their annual assessment by March 31, or they will be suspended from testing.

Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI, said: “The pressure really is on MOT testers, with many working over and above to ensure they keep their customers legally on the road. However, by failing to prioritise their MOT Annual Assessment they could undo their fantastic efforts.”

In January, the DVSA announced it would not be extending the annual training year this year, a measure it had previously offered in order to help the industry recover from COVID-19. It has also confirmed that technicians who do not complete this year’s MOT Annual Assessment by midnight Thursday 31 March 2022 will be suspended from testing.

The assessment can be completed online, via an approved assessment provider.

If the deadline is missed, MOT testers will need to demonstrate to a DVSA representative their ability to carry out an MOT assessment on a vehicle. This will be conducted face-to-face at the tester’s place of work, but with so many testers potentially failing to be compliant by the deadline, the IMI warns there could be a considerable waiting time before a DVSA representative reaches their workshop

The IMI, which is one of two authorised assessment providers, has launched a dedicated webpage providing a library of MOT Useful Resources for testers. It is also holding a series of Late Shift Clinics throughout the month, including a final clinic on March 31 at 8pm.

The IMI says its MOT Training and Assessment package has been designed with convenience in mind for testers, offering bite-size e-Learning training modules that can been completed at a time that suits them.

The recruitment and retention of mechanics and MOT testers is set to remain as a key challenge for garages and workshops this year, according to the Motor Ombudsman.