The Role & Expectations
The work is carrying out the official MOT inspection - checking brakes, lights, tyres, emissions, steering and more - recording results accurately and explaining any fails to customers. Thoroughness, honesty and good knowledge of the standards matter, since the test is a legal safety check and you must apply the rules exactly and fairly.
The work is hands-on in a garage, can be physical and grubby, usually with regular weekday hours plus some Saturdays, and pay is generally a steady wage, often more than a basic mechanic. Most testers work in MOT-approved garages.
You must already be a qualified vehicle mechanic with the right experience, then complete official MOT tester training and approval from the DVSA. You must keep your certification up to date with regular refresher training to keep testing.
Daily Responsibilities
- Carry out official MOT inspections
- Check brakes, lights, tyres and steering
- Test emissions and exhaust
- Record results accurately on the system
- Explain passes, fails and advisories
- Follow the MOT standards exactly
- Keep certification and training up to date