Basic Criminal Record Checks for MOT Testers
09/04/2026
There is a requirement to have Basic Criminal Record Checks for MOT testers.
From January 2024
There is a requirement to have Basic Criminal Record Checks for MOT testers before booking and completing a DVSA Demonstration Test, if you fall into any of the following catefories:
- Newly qualified MOT testers
- MOT testers returning after a disciplinary suspension of 28 days, 2 years or 5 years
- MOT testers who have not carried out an MOT test in the last 5 years
- Existing MOT testers adding an additional test group (Group A or B)
- MOT testers returning after being lapsed or suspended, including failure to complete annual training or assessment.
DBS certificate validity
Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Checks must be dated within 3 months of the DVSA Demonstration Test.
This requirement builds on earlier DVSA security measures introduced in November 2019, which applied to those applying to be:
- Authorised Examiner (AE)
- Authorised Examiner Designated Manager (AEDM).
Why DVSA requires DBS checks
The Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) introduced Basic Criminal Record Checks to protect the integrity of the MOT scheme.
MOT testing staff, managers and administrative staff must immediately advise the DVSA if they get a conviction involving one of the following:
- A prison/suspended sentence of 3 months or more.
- A fine exceeding level 4 on the standard scale (currently £2,500).
- A community service order (or equivalent) requiring unpaid work for more than 60 hours.
- Any punishment outside the UK is equivalent to these points.
The way in which the DVSA handles convictions and repute is described here Appendix 7: Convictions and repute.
Before the Demonstration Test
The Vehicle Examiner must be shown either:
- A digital image or scanned copy of the Basic Criminal Record Certificate.
- The certificate number and the check code (only available via the DBS check service for England and Wales)
- DBS details are usually submitted online when booking the Demonstration Test
- Scottish disclosure certificates must be posted to DVSA, as they do not include a consent check code
How to source Basic Criminal Record Checks for MOT Testers
Basic Disclosure Checks should be processed via the Disclosure & Barring Service for people living in England & Wales, Disclosure Scotland for people living in Scotland and Access Northern Ireland for people living in Northern Ireland.
We hope this has been helpful, and please do contact us if you would like help in securing your organisation’s Basic Criminal Record Checks. We offer a fully managed or self-managed service.
Sign up and start processing checks straight away.
