The MOT test is the process in the automotive sector that ensures vehicles meet environmental and safety standards. All vehicles, however, are not subjected to the same type of MOT test and not all testers are permitted to inspect every class of vehicle. This is where the MOT test classes come into play. These classes can determine the vehicle by its type, along with weight. Then a test class would identify what qualifications the person tester needs in order to be able to test this type of test. As either an aspiring MOT tester or someone needing clarity for the right type of MOT class, MOT test class details are fundamental to it all. Read below, to find your way through some classes and where to achieve those qualifications necessary to administer their tests.

What Are MOT Test Classes?

MOT test classes are the particular classes of vehicles that need different types of testing depending on their size, weight, and use. Each class has its own set of standards, testing procedures, and qualifications needed for testers. Testing a small car is very different from testing a bigger van or a motorcycle. The most common MOT test classes are Class 4, Class 5, and Class 7. However, there exist other specialized classes for certain types of vehicles, for example, buses, heavy goods vehicles, and motorcycles.

Class 4 vehicle usually includes cars, light vans, and other vehicles carrying passengers with a gross vehicle weight of up to 3,000 kg. Class 5 is applicable for larger vehicles with between 9 and 12 passenger seats, such as minibuses. Class 7 is applicable for bigger vans weighing in the range of 3,000 kg to 3,500 kg. Class 1 and Class 2 apply to motorcycles and their trailers, respectively, while Classes 6 and 8 are applicable for buses and heavy commercial vehicles. Each class of vehicle will have a different type of test and the person doing the MOT needs to be adequately trained and qualified in doing each.

Why are MOT test classes important?

The classes of MOT tests impact directly on the qualification required for an MOT tester. A tester would require a different qualification depending on the class of the vehicle to be tested for. Testing a Class 4 vehicle, for instance, is different from that of a Class 7, which is a van. Accordingly, MOT testers need to have appropriate training and certification before legally being allowed to test certain vehicles.

If you want to be an MOT tester, you need to know all the classes because it would determine which qualification you are to pursue. Whether you want to test cars, vans, minibuses, or larger commercial vehicles, the training courses required for certification in each class differ in scope and content. Thus, choosing the right course is important for career advancement as well as the ability to work with the types of vehicles you are most interested in.

Becoming an MOT Tester: Training Courses

To become a qualified MOT tester, individuals must undergo specialized training to give them the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the MOT test according to safety and environmental regulations. The courses are designed to teach testers how to examine different vehicle components and identify faults that may lead to a failure of the MOT test.

Level 2 Award in MOT Testing is among the most common and highly known training courses for intending MOT testers. The award certifies the tester on vehicles in Class 4 and Class 7. The qualification deals with the examination of passenger cars and light commercial vehicles such as vans. It can usually be provided as a 4-day course. The Level 2 Award in MOT Testing is accredited by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, so the students completing it are fully qualified to perform MOT tests on Class 4 and Class 7 vehicles.

Level 2 Award (Class 4 and 7) - 4 Days

The Level 2 Award in MOT Testing is usually a 4-day course, offering a compact yet comprehensive curriculum for people looking to become qualified MOT testers for Class 4 and Class 7 vehicles. This course is meant for those with at least 4 years of experience working in the motor trade and a good understanding of vehicle systems and repairs. It’s important to note that while prior experience is required, the course provides everything needed to confidently perform MOT tests on the specified vehicle classes.

The 4-day training program covers both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience. Candidates learn the step-by-step procedures for conducting an MOT test, from inspecting the vehicle’s major components to issuing the MOT certificate. Topics covered include safety standards, emissions testing, fault diagnosis, and the legal responsibilities of an MOT tester. In addition, candidates learn how to evaluate several vehicle systems, including brakes, tyres, lights, suspension, and emissions controls. At the end of the course, candidates must pass a written exam and a practical test in which they will be able to demonstrate their capability to perform an MOT inspection under supervision.

What's Covered in the Level 2 Award Course?

The Level 2 Award in MOT Testing (Class 4 and 7) is an in-depth training course to ensure that the testers are fully equipped with their work. The following are core components covered during the course:

•     MOT Testing Procedures: Trainees will learn exactly how to perform an MOT test, including checking a vehicle and how to read test results.
•      Safety and Legal Requirements: The course includes relevant safety regulations and legal obligations, so that testers understand their responsibilities and the legal framework surrounding the MOT test.
•       Vehicle Component Checks: Candidates are taught to check various vehicle systems, including lights, brakes, tyres, suspension, and emissions systems, and understand what constitutes a pass or failure.
•      Fault Diagnosis: One of the most significant skills of a tester is to find faults and defects in a vehicle during a test. The course readies a tester to notice issues not immediately visible yet pose some risk to safety or to the environment.
•      Environmental and Emissions Standards: An important part of the course, the learner should gain awareness of emissions legislation and ways to test a vehicle as regards compliance to environmental standards, which become very stringent. 

The course is delivered in such a manner to give an overview of exactly what an MOT tester will do, thus when certificated, any learner should be able to confidently undertake Class 4 and Class 7 tests.

Why Level 2 Award Class 4 and 7 Course?

Many people opt to take the Level 2 Award for Class 4 and 7 vehicles when they want to become MOT testers. Here are a few benefits:

•      Efficiency and Speed: The course is 4 days in length, which is long but not too long, ensuring that the individual can become qualified as an MOT tester in a short period.
•       Industry Acceptance: The Level 2 Award is recognized by the DVSA, thus ensuring that your qualification will be respected and trusted in the automotive industry.
•      Hands-on Experience: The course is balanced between theoretical knowledge and practical experience, hence making it easier for you to apply what you have learned in a real-world environment.
•       Job Opportunities: Most of the vehicles on the road are Class 4 or Class 7. This qualification opens up the wide range of employment opportunities at MOT testing stations.
•      Clear Career Path: This qualification is a foundation. Once you are certified to work on Class 4 and Class 7 vehicles, you can always pursue more certifications to expand your abilities. 

What happens after I complete the course?

Once you’ve completed the Level 2 Award in MOT Testing, you’ll be eligible to perform MOT tests on Class 4 and Class 7 vehicles. This includes passenger cars, light vans, and minibuses. However, many MOT testers continue their education to gain certification for additional vehicle classes, such as Class 5 or Class 8, which involves larger commercial vehicles. As you gain experience and further training, your career as an MOT tester can progress along many directions. 

Conclusion

It is, therefore, essential to understand the MOT test classes for any individual seeking a career as an MOT tester. Level 2 Award in MOT Testing (Class 4 and 7) would be ideal for those interested in starting off by testing cars and vans. With the right course, you will become a certified MOT tester and unlock the door to a great career in the automotive world.

For more information on how to become a certified MOT tester and to learn about the MOT Testing Level 2 Award Class 4 and 7 4-Day Course, visit MOT Training Experts. With the right training and certifications, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in vehicle testing.