The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is implementing a significant regulatory change that will directly impact MOT testers and station managers across the UK. From January 9, individuals who receive a disciplinary cessation will face a complete ban from holding any MOT-related roles for the duration of their penalty.
What the New MOT Rule Entails
The core of the new regulation is straightforward but stringent. If you are an MOT tester and are given a 2-year or 5-year cessation, you will be prohibited from holding any MOT roles for that entire period. The rule extends beyond individual testers to those in management positions.
Specifically, an Authorised Examiner Principal (AEP) of a single-site testing station that receives a cessation order will also be banned. The same applies to the AEP of a multi-site operator if all of its sites are issued with a 2 or 5-year cessation. This move aims to tighten accountability throughout the MOT testing chain.
The Disciplinary Process Explained
According to advice from MOT Pro, the disciplinary process typically begins when a DVSA Vehicle Examiner investigates a potential breach. If the issue concerns vehicle testing standards or methods, both the tester and the Authorised Examiner face similar accusations and potential MOT disciplinary points.
However, matters related to station administration—such as record-keeping, equipment calibration, or booking processes—are less likely to result in action against the individual tester. The first formal notification is the Contemplated Disciplinary Letter (CDL).
This letter details the alleged breaches of MOT regulations and the proposed penalty, which can include points, suspension, or cessation. It is accompanied by supporting evidence like photographs or interview transcripts. Recipients have 15 working days to submit a comprehensive reply. Failure to address all points raised often leads to the proposed penalties being applied.
Seeking Professional Advice is Crucial
MOT Pro strongly advises seeking professional help to craft the response to a CDL. "Dealing with a MOT disciplinary points case at the earliest possible opportunity is by far the best course of action," the group states. A well-prepared reply can be critical in mitigating the outcome.
This policy shift underscores the DVSA's commitment to upholding rigorous standards in the MOT testing scheme. For testers and authorised examiners, it heightens the consequences of regulatory failures, making compliance and diligent record-keeping more important than ever.
