An MOT tester is arguably the most rewarding career path. Although it is somewhat challenging, an MOT tester can enjoy high earnings. You can even start your own business after a few years of experience. The search for MOT testing near me is on the rise in the UK. However, the job comes with a sense of responsibility and accountability. An MOT tester must have good communication and organized skills.
In this article, we are providing information to those who want to become an MOT tester. We are going to outline the qualification requirement and training that you need to become an MOT tester.
Do You Need to Be a Mechanic?
Yes, a candidate who is willing to become an MOT tester has to be a mechanic. This is one of the basic requirements to be an MOT tester. You must be a skilled mechanic and expert in repairing the type of vehicles that you want to test as an MOT tester.
Eligibility Criteria for MOT Testers
Candidates must have to meet the following requirements.
- Current UK driving license
- 4 years of experience as a mechanic
- Over 20 years of age
- Good reputation
- No criminal offenses (unspent convictions)
A candidate must have to fulfill the above-mentioned eligibility criteria. If a candidate is eligible, then he has to pass the “Nominated Tester Training Assessment” or NTTA examination.
MOT Tester Courses
MOT tester courses are specifically designed as per the industrial needs and requirements. Most of these courses are 2 or 3 days in length. The type of courses you have to take depends on which vehicle class you want to test. There are different classes for different types of vehicles.
Class 1 and 2 courses are for those who are interested in motorbikes. Vehicles classes 3, 4, 5, and 7 are for motor vehicles. These are further divided into commercial, mon-commercial, lightweight and heavyweight vehicles.
The new changes in MOT testing require professional to take an annual refresher course. Testers can take these courses online and renew their certification as MOT testers.
MOT Tester Examination
MOT tester examination consists of multiple choice questions. There are 60 MCQs in an NTTA examination and candidates have to answer all of them. The time to take the test is one and half an hour (90 minutes). You can take the test across the UK in any of the approved examination centers.
If a candidate wants to test vehicles of more than one class, he has to take the examination for another vehicle class as well. You also have to take training courses for that vehicle class.
Role of an MOT Tester
An MOT tester has an important role in an automotive team. He is responsible to make sure that vehicle testing is carried out as per set standards. MOT testers contribute to the overall functions of their companies. They ensure that their service stations meet the obligations set by the Ministry. The main roles of MOT testers involve the following responsibilities.
- M.O.T testing
- General servicing
- Correcting failures and faults
- Vehicle maintenance
How Much You Can Earn?
An MOT tester usually enjoys a high salary as compared to many professionals. The average starting salary of a fresh MOT tester is around £15,000. Whereas an experienced MOT tester gets an average annual salary in between £26,000 to £30,000.
