MOT tester training records
Keeping evidence of MOT tester annual training — what training records should include, how to retrieve them, and what to do for the 2026 to 2027 training year.
Last reviewed: 2026-08-19
What training records are for
DVSA guidance expects MOT testing stations (through the AE) to be able to show evidence that testers have completed the required annual training within the training year.
Records also help you track progress across 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027 so you can resolve any missing items before suspension risk increases.
What a useful training record contains
When you review a training record, it should help you answer:
- which tester the evidence relates to
- which training year (for example, 2026 to 2027)
- which vehicle group(s) the training covers (Group A and/or Group B)
- what training was completed (topics and training provider/materials)
- how many hours were completed
- where the evidence is stored (and that it can be retrieved quickly)
If you keep training evidence outside the MOT Testing Service, store it so it can be retrieved on request.
Recording training on MTS (and keeping pre-MTS evidence)
DVSA guidance says training must be recorded on the MOT Testing Service.
For training evidence created before training was recorded on MTS, keep historical paper/electronic records in line with the DVSA guidance in “Tester training and demonstration tests”.
Keeping records easy to retrieve
If your station’s evidence is spread across folders and emails, it’s harder to retrieve quickly when requested.
MOT Lens supports a single workspace for tester records and deadlines (see MOT Lens Tester Management).
FAQ
Where should MOT tester training be recorded?
DVSA guidance is that training is recorded on the MOT Testing Service (MTS).
Do we still need to keep older training evidence?
Yes. If you used paper or electronic records before training was recorded on MTS, keep historical records in line with the DVSA guidance.
What should I link training evidence to?
Link it to the tester and the training year, including the vehicle group(s) covered and the hours completed.
What if a training record is missing?
Work through the relevant training year with your AE process and training provider so you can complete the missing requirement before the deadline.
Can MOT Lens store training evidence outside MTS?
MOT Lens can help you organise supporting evidence, but it does not replace official MOT Testing Service training recording.
See how MOT Lens supports this workflow
MOT Lens organises your station’s MOT data so you can review what matters and keep the evidence connected.