MOT Testing Updates: What's New for 2018?

The landscape of MOT testing in the United Kingdom experienced significant updates towards the end of 2018, bringing about a more modern, efficient, and transparent system for authorised examiners (AEs), site managers (SMs), and individual MOT testers. These changes, spearheaded by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), were designed to streamline processes, enhance compliance, and ensure that vehicles continue to receive accurate and fair assessments. Understanding these revisions is crucial for anyone involved in running or working within an MOT testing station.

The primary areas of transformation include the application process for opening or modifying testing stations, the nature of site inspections, and the introduction of a sophisticated risk rating methodology. Each of these elements contributes to a more robust and accountable MOT scheme, ultimately benefiting vehicle safety and public confidence.

Streamlining Applications: The VT01 Form Goes Digital

One of the most notable improvements for those looking to establish, alter, or manage an MOT testing station is the modernisation of the VT01 application form. From 1 November 2018, the process of applying to become an authorised examiner (AE) or making changes to an existing station became significantly more accessible and efficient. The VT01 form, which is central to all these administrative actions, can now be completed online and submitted via email, marking a clear move towards digital operations.

The VT01 form serves multiple critical purposes within the MOT framework. It is the official document used to:

• Apply to become an authorised examiner (AE), whether you are a sole trader, a partnership, or a limited company, granting you the authority to operate an MOT testing station.
• Inform the DVSA about any changes to your details or circumstances as an AE. This could range from a change of address to a significant shift in business structure.
• Change your AE designated manager (AEDM), who is the person ultimately responsible for overseeing MOT testing operations within your business.
• Apply to set up a brand-new MOT testing station from scratch.
• Apply to take over an existing MOT testing station, ensuring a smooth transition of responsibility.
• Make any changes to a current MOT testing station, such as altering the classes of vehicles it is authorised to test or updating the test equipment used.

The ability to fill in the form online and email it to [email protected] represents a significant step forward. Furthermore, supporting documents, which are often numerous and varied, can now also be attached electronically to the email, simplifying the submission process considerably. New guidance notes were issued to clarify precisely what documentation is required for different application types.

It is important to note that if a partnership or company is applying, every partner or director involved must complete a separate declaration form. This ensures accountability and transparency across all levels of the business structure.

What Happens After Submission?

Once your application is submitted, the MOT Approvals team at the DVSA will process it. They will contact you in due course regarding its progress. To avoid unnecessary delays, it is paramount that all required items and supporting documents are provided accurately and completely. Any errors or omissions can significantly hinder the processing time.

If your application pertains to setting up a new MOT testing station and is successful, you will receive an 'approval in principle' letter. This crucial document confirms that the content of your application is acceptable to the DVSA, giving you the green light to proceed with the physical setup of your MOT testing station. Should you need to make any changes to your application after submission, it is essential to contact the MOT Approvals team at [email protected] to confirm that the proposed changes are acceptable before proceeding.

While the digital submission method is now strongly encouraged due to its efficiency, the option to send in your application on paper remains. However, for a quicker and more streamlined process, the online submission route is highly recommended.

Evolving Oversight: From Site Assessments to Site Reviews

Another pivotal change implemented from Monday 12 November 2018 was the replacement of the traditional 'site assessment' with a new, more focused 'site review'. This change signifies a shift in emphasis, with the DVSA now placing greater importance on the actual outcome of tests and the overall performance of the testing station, rather than just the physical setup.

The new site review process is notably shorter than its predecessor, reflecting its targeted nature. A key improvement in transparency and accessibility is how the results of a site review visit are now communicated. Unlike the old system where a paper form was left at the testing station by the DVSA vehicle examiner, the results are now available to view digitally on the MOT testing service. Both the site manager (SM) and the AE designated manager (AEDM) can access this information directly. To do so, they simply need to navigate to the MOT testing station homepage and select 'Site review summary'.

If remedial action or a specific response is required following a site review, this will be clearly stated within the digital results. This immediate and accessible feedback mechanism allows testing stations to quickly address any identified deficiencies, contributing to ongoing compliance and quality assurance.

The purpose of these site reviews, alongside the new risk rating system, is twofold: to ensure that the MOT testing station consistently meets the required standards and requirements for providing MOT tests, and to confirm that robust procedures are in place to support MOT testers, ultimately ensuring that vehicles receive the correct outcome during their MOT test.

Here's a quick comparison:

Introducing MOT Risk Rating: A New Era of Compliance

Perhaps the most significant and impactful change introduced on 12 November 2018 was the implementation of a new method for calculating the MOT risk of non-compliance. This innovative system assigns a risk rating to every MOT testing station and, crucially, to every individual MOT tester. The ratings are categorised as red, amber, or green, with red indicating the highest risk of non-compliance.

The overarching purpose of this risk rating, in conjunction with the site review process, is to proactively ensure that:

• MOT testing stations consistently meet the required standards and requirements to effectively provide MOT tests.
• Stations have robust procedures in place to support their MOT testers, guaranteeing that vehicles receive accurate and correct outcomes during their MOT tests.

Risk Rating for Individual MOT Testers

Each MOT tester now possesses an individual risk rating, a metric calculated by comparing their personal test information against national averages. Testers whose data significantly deviates from these national averages will receive a higher risk rating. It's important to understand that a high rating, while a flag for both the AE and the DVSA, does not automatically imply that the tester is performing incorrectly. Instead, it signals that there is something that requires further investigation to understand the underlying reasons for the variation.

MOT testers have exclusive access to their individual risk rating, which can be viewed by logging into their personal profile on the MOT testing service. The decision to share this information with anyone, including their AE, rests entirely with the individual tester.

The calculation of a tester's risk rating considers various data points, including information from the testing service itself, details of any unsatisfactory inspections, and other relevant incidents. Testers can gain deeper insight into unsatisfactory inspections or other incidents by accessing their 'Event history' within their profile. Additionally, comprehensive details regarding their testing performance are available on their 'test quality information' page, also found within their profile.

How MOT Tester Risk Ratings are Refreshed

MOT tester risk ratings are refreshed on a monthly basis. This regular update ensures that the rating accurately reflects any changes in a tester's performance or circumstances that occurred in the preceding month. For example, a tester's rating might be refreshed if:

• They move from an MOT testing station that primarily tests older vehicles, which typically have a higher failure rate, to a station that mainly tests newer, three-year-old vehicles with a more normal failure rate.
• There is an unsatisfactory reinspection of a vehicle they previously tested.

This dynamic system means that a tester's risk profile is continuously updated, encouraging ongoing adherence to standards.

Risk Rating for MOT Testing Stations

An MOT testing station's risk rating is a comprehensive assessment derived from several key factors:

• The combined risk profiles of the individual testers operating at that station.
• The outcome and findings of the most recent site review.
• The results of any unsatisfactory visits and inspections carried out at the station.

Authorised Examiners (AEs) and site managers (SMs) are encouraged to utilise their test quality reports to gain valuable insights into the testing profiles of their individual testers. Furthermore, information on overall test activities and incidents affecting the station can be accessed by navigating to the AE profile page and selecting 'Event history'. This centralised access to data empowers AEs and SMs to proactively manage compliance and identify areas for improvement.

How MOT Testing Station Risk Ratings are Refreshed

Similar to individual testers, MOT testing station risk ratings are also refreshed monthly. This ensures that the station's rating remains current and reflects any recent changes. For instance, the risk rating will be refreshed if an MOT tester joins or leaves the MOT testing station, as this directly impacts the collective risk profile of the station's workforce.

Frequently Asked Questions About MOT Updates

Here are some common questions regarding the MOT testing updates introduced in late 2018:

What is the VT01 application form used for?

The VT01 form is used for a variety of administrative purposes related to MOT testing stations. This includes applying to become an Authorised Examiner, setting up a new testing station, taking over an existing one, making changes to a current station (like vehicle classes or equipment), and updating AE details or changing the AE Designated Manager.

How long does it take to get 'approval in principle' for a new MOT testing station?

The processing time can vary. The MOT Approvals team processes applications in due course. To ensure the quickest possible processing, it is crucial to provide all required items and supporting documents accurately and completely, as any errors or omissions can cause delays.

What's the main difference between a site assessment and a site review?

The site assessment (old system) was generally a longer, more comprehensive inspection. The site review (new system from Nov 2018) is shorter and places more emphasis on the outcome of tests and overall station performance. Crucially, site review results are now digital and accessible online, replacing paper forms.

Who can see my individual MOT tester risk rating?

Only the individual MOT tester can see their own risk rating by accessing their profile on the MOT testing service. It is entirely up to the tester whether they choose to share this information with anyone else, including their Authorised Examiner.

What does a 'red' risk rating mean for an MOT tester?

A 'red' risk rating indicates a high risk of non-compliance. While it doesn't automatically mean the tester is doing something wrong, it does flag that their test information significantly varies from national averages, and there is something that the AE and DVSA will need to investigate to understand the reasons why.

How often are MOT risk ratings updated?

Both individual MOT tester risk ratings and MOT testing station risk ratings are refreshed on a monthly basis. This ensures that the ratings reflect any changes in performance or circumstances that occurred in the previous month.

What should an AE do if their station or a tester has a high risk rating?

An AE should use the test quality reports and event history available on the MOT testing service to investigate the reasons behind the high rating. This involves reviewing testing profiles, unsatisfactory inspections, and any incidents to understand the underlying issues and implement necessary remedial actions to improve compliance.

Can I still submit a paper application for MOT station changes?

Yes, you can still send in your application on paper. However, the DVSA advises that applications sent online (completed and emailed) are processed more quickly and efficiently.

Where can I find details of unsatisfactory inspections or incidents in my tester profile?

You can see details of unsatisfactory inspections or other incidents by logging into your MOT tester profile and selecting 'Event history' on the right-hand side. For general testing performance, you can go to your 'test quality information' page within your profile.

Conclusion: A Modernised Approach to MOT Compliance

The updates to MOT testing implemented in late 2018 represent a significant leap forward in modernising the regulatory framework for vehicle inspections in the UK. By introducing online application processes, streamlined site reviews, and the innovative risk rating system, the DVSA has aimed to create a more efficient, transparent, and robust environment for MOT testing.

These changes empower authorised examiners and site managers with better tools for oversight and compliance management, while providing individual testers with greater insight into their performance. The shift towards digital processes not only reduces administrative burdens but also enhances the speed and accuracy of interactions with the DVSA. Ultimately, these measures reinforce the integrity of the MOT scheme, ensuring that vehicles on Britain's roads continue to meet essential safety and environmental standards. Staying informed about these developments is key to maintaining high standards and ensuring smooth operations within the MOT testing industry.

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