Offering an MOT service can work wonders for your workshop. However, getting started is not without pitfalls. Concept Garage Equipment has been set up to help guide workshops through the process and ensure success.
If you’ve considered taking a chance at starting or upgrading an MOT testing station, then be prepared to play the potentially costly game of MOTopoly.
There are quite a few restrictions and requirements you’ll need sorting before starting the DVSA VT01 process to apply to be an MOT tester or MOT testing station.
First, the DVSA MOT application process can be quite a lengthy one. As well as completing the VT01 form itself, you’ll need to have chosen an MOT garage equipment supplier and have all the MOT bay dimensions calculated and ready.
Another thing to think about is which team member will be your authorised examiner designated manager (AEDM). If you are a single site, the AEDM must be a director or sole trader, however if you have multi-site then you can nominate an AEDM (normally the manager). They’ll need to get up to speed and finish the AEDM training course to get qualified.
Navigating the process
During the process, you’ll also need the following:
- Solicitor’s letter
- DBS check
- CAD design of your garage
- Site plan
Get it wrong, or miss a vital step before submitting the VT01 form to the DVSA and it’s back to the start.
Concept Garage Equipment has helped many businesses navigate this process, as national sales manager, Andy Davidson, explains: “We’ve been instrumental in setting up hundreds of MOT bays across the UK. Both before and since the introduction of connected equipment. We find simplifying the process for the garage owner means they can focus on the day-to-day running of their business while we deal with the rest. From accurate measurements, form filling and curating everything in between, to achieve that all important, successful DVSA sign off, first time!”
Having a specialist helping hand can certainly take the pressure off you as the business owner. It’s something worth considering.
Entering the MOT world
Once the VT01 form is approved, it’s time to start any groundwork your business needs. Once that’s complete, your garage is ready for delivery and installation of the MOT testing equipment. In the meantime, staff training is key. They must be confident at using the new MOT bay equipment safely, without risk of damage to themselves, the equipment or the customer’s vehicles, tyres or wheels. And you’re nearly there.
Andy from Concept Garage Equipment adds: “We’ve been very humbled to have so many happy customers in 2022. It’s amazing. We can only see demand increasing with the MOT testing delays imposed by the Covid-19 extensions, having pushed many vehicle MOTs to the end of the year.”
Before you venture into the world of MOT testing alone, here are some tips:
- Make sure you’re aware of the process
- Have your paperwork ready
- Create a simple checklist to make sure no steps are missed
Put these in place and you’ve got the makings of a seamless experience and a profitable move into MOT testing.
