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Southern England’s Premier MOT Tester Training Centre

Frequently Asked Questions

Training, consultancy and refresher courses for MOT testers and Workshop Managers

Based in Basingstoke, Hampshire, we provide training and consultancy for MOT testers and Workshop Managers. Below you will find the answers to many of the key questions we get asked.

General FAQ

What makes your training centre different?

At MOT Learning Services it’s about you and your future as an MOT tester. We are not a big company that needs to push through lots of testers, so what makes us different is that we take our time to make sure you receive the best and up to date course possible, giving you real life scenarios that we have come across as MOT testers.

Where is your training centre?

Level 1 Concept House, Bell Road, Basingstoke, RG24 8FB.

Do you supply refreshments?

We supply free coffee, tea, sugar and milk. You can purchase cans of drink from our fridge and packets of crisp’s there is an honesty box within the tearoom. If you bring lunch with you feel free to use the fridge if you’d like to buy lunch, then there are several options we will tell you these on the day.

MOT Testers Course Class 4 & 7

How long does it take to complete your Nominated Testers training course?

At MOT Learning Services we carry out our nominated testers course training over four days. You will receive a relaxed but very serious approach to the MOT scheme, and we pride ourselves on delivering the best possible training to enhance your future as a MOT tester.

Can I become a MOT Tester if I have over four years of experience but no qualifications?

You can become a MOT Tester, but you would need to complete an ATA accreditation which is a one-day assessment. This will then enable you to do the Nominated Testers course.

Am I be able to complete the nominated testers course with a non-UK qualification certificate?

We have a list of acceptable and non-acceptable non-UK qualification so it is always worth popping your qualification certificates into an email so we can check them.

Does my apprenticeship count against the four years of experience?

Yes, as long as you have completed four years within the motor trade working on the type of vehicle you are going to be testing.

What do I need to bring with me on the first day of the nominated testers course?

Your employer would have been sent an application form please fill this in and bring it with you along with the following, safety footwear, suitable

clothing to work in a workshop environment (no shorts), full UK driving licence and your Level 3 qualification certificates.

Is your MOT training centre a certified training facility?

Yes, we are we are an IMI approved centre working to the highest of standards.

Do you have on-site MOT testing facilities?

Yes, we have use of our own MOT certified facilities which are sectioned of from the main workshop to make your learning process much less nerve racking.

Can you be my nominated workshop to be signed off by the DVSA?

Yes, we can. There is an additional cost, but we carry out an extra days training before you face the DVSA, and we will help you with the whole demonstration booking process.

How do I complete my DBS check and what is it?

DBS stands for data barring service; this check is a criminal records check not only will you need the hardcopy certificate, but you will need a check code, please see our step-by-step demonstration booking instructions on how to do this.

When should I do my DBS check?

Your DBS check must be done within a three-month window of your demonstration booking. The DVSA will not accept a DBS check that’s gone over the three-month period. The DVSA will also not accept a standard or enhanced DBS check it must be a Basic DBS check.

How do I book my MOT demonstration test with the DVSA?

If you are doing this for the first time it can be a bit of a mine field, please see our step-by-step instruction on how to book your demonstration test.
If you still struggle after this, please do not hesitate to give the centre a call.

I was under the illusion I had to be 21 to carry out MOT training?

If you started an apprenticeship when you where 16 and your four years’ of experience is completed at the age of 20, then you can go ahead and complete your Nominated testers course.

Are there any hotels within travelling distance to your centre?
There are several hotels that we have within the Basingstoke area approximately 2–10-mile radius of the training centre. Please see the list of the local hotels here.

ATA Light Vehicle Inspection Accreditation

How long does my ATA accreditation last for?

Your ATA accreditation will last for 3 years, you can re-accredit after the 3 years by coming back to our training centre and just completing 1 unit of the 5 from the first course, however once you have obtained your MOT qualification you do not need to keep the ATA accreditation active.

What will I need to do on the day of an ATA accreditation?

The ATA accreditation in light vehicle inspection technician is an assessment on your knowledge and ability to find and diagnose defects to a level 3 standard.

Task 1, You have 5 units to cover within the inspection and diagnosis section with reporting all your defects in writing on the day, You have 60 minutes per unit to complete each set task.

Task 2, You will need to carry out a knowledge-based exam 30 questions over 45 minutes with a 60% pass mark.

Task 3, Second exam which is another knowledge-based exam 10 questions over 15 minutes with a 60% pass mark.

Electric Vehicle Courses

I’ve seen on your website that you do hybrid and electric training but there are no dates available?
If you are interested in booking an electric and hybrid course, we do these as and when they are required, please give our office a call and we can discuss booking you in, our office number is 01256 635624.

Enquiry Form

Fill in the form below and one of the team will contact you.

Contact Details

Training Centre Address

Concept House
Bell Road,
Basingstoke
Hampshire RG24 8FB

Christmas

We will be closed from 24th December until the 2nd of January and will respond to any enquiries as soon as we return.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas.