LKQ Euro Car Parts is calling on technicians to ensure that they’ve completed their 2024/25 MOT CPD training before the end of March, ahead of changes to the testing process designed to prevent fraud.
Lee Chapman, head of support and LKQ Academy, said: “As recently as February, the DVSA reported that more than 28,000 testers were yet to take their annual CPD assessment, representing a huge chunk of the aftermarket’s workforce.
“Those who miss the deadline will be suspended and are then required to demonstrate in person to a DVSA representative that they can carry out an MOT test on a vehicle. It can often take weeks to reverse a disqualification, costing valuable time, customers and money”.
New rules implemented last month aim to crack down on fraud, in particular ‘ghost MOTs’ or pass certificates created for vehicles that have never been tested – currently accounting for nearly 80% of all fraudulent MOTs.
Under the new measures, all MOT technicians will be required to take a photo of the vehicle they are servicing in a testing bay after entering its number plate or VIN.
Chapman added: “This year brings more stringent requirements for testers, meaning that it’s more important than ever that they’re on top of their training. Many independent workshops have just the one tester, without whom they risk loyal customers having to take their vehicles elsewhere, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.
“And when April 1 arrives and the new CPD year begins, our advice is not to wait until this time next year before completing it again. The training is updated every year for good reason and undertaking it as early as possible can help you to improve your testing accuracy and thus ensure the safety of the vehicles you service.”
LKQ Euro Car Parts collaborates with the IMI and the DVSA on the approved MOT CPD training it offers through the LKQ Academy. Testers are advised to book their training by March 27 to allow enough time to complete it by the March 31 deadline.