What this checklist covers
The MOT Quality Control Checklist is a 15-point scorecard for MOT test accuracy, tester observation, QC checks, documentation, advisory notes, and fraud prevention. Each criterion is scored from 1 to 5 on what the auditor sees on the day, and every gap goes into an action plan with an owner and a close date.
AutoSmart tip: MOT quality control is a DVSA contractual obligation, not an optional best practice. The DVSA’s quality information data provides pass rate and test duration benchmarks by vehicle class — compare your site’s data against the national benchmark regularly. A tester whose pass rate or test duration is significantly outside the benchmark range is the most common starting point for a DVSA targeted investigation.
The checks
Tap Yes, No or Maybe to try it: your answers stay in this page and clear when you refresh. For a detailed walkthrough, download our PDF or book a demo.
Test accuracy and tester observation
- Are QC observation checks conducted on tester performance at the required frequency, covering the full test sequence and defect classification accuracy?
- Is tester accuracy reviewed across a sample of tests using the DVSA's quality information data, with persistent outliers investigated and coached?
- Are borderline defect decisions reviewed during QC observations, confirming that testers are applying the current DVSA inspection manual definitions consistently?
- Are QC observation records maintained for every observed test, with findings and any coaching actions documented?
QC checks and equipment checks
- Are daily equipment function checks performed before testing begins, with results logged and equipment failures preventing testing until resolved?
- Is a QC vehicle check conducted at the required frequency, using a designated QC vehicle to verify test lane equipment is producing consistent and accurate results?
- Are QC check results compared against expected values, with any out-of-tolerance readings triggering equipment service or recalibration before further testing?
- Are QC check records retained for the period required by DVSA, available for inspection during a monitoring visit?
Documentation and advisory notes
- Are advisory notes used correctly — recorded for items that are not yet a failure but should be monitored — and worded clearly enough for the customer to act on?
- Is test documentation completed fully and accurately in the DVSA MOTH system, with no blank fields, generic descriptions, or copy- pasted entries across different vehicles?
- Are VIN and registration number entries verified against the physical vehicle before the test is recorded, to prevent tests being recorded against incorrect vehicle records? DISCIPLINARY RISK & FRAUD PREVENTION
- Is tester activity monitored for patterns that indicate potential fraud — unusually high pass rates, low defect rates, or tests completed in implausibly short times?
- Is the AE and TM aware of the DVSA's list of behaviours that constitute MOT fraud, with all testers briefed on the consequences including criminal prosecution?
- Is there a documented process for reporting suspected MOT fraud or tester malpractice to DVSA, and are all staff aware of it?
- Are any DVSA intelligence flags or previous disciplinary notices on file addressed, with evidence that the underlying cause has been resolved?
How to run it
How the scoring works
Before the visit, fill in the dealer or centre, the auditor, the date and the audit cycle. Then score each of the 15 checks from 1 to 5 on what you see on the day, not on what the site aims for, and add them up out of 75.
- 1Not in place
- 2Attempted
- 3Defined
- 4Managed
- 5Fully sustained
- Green60–75 · 80–100%Compliant. Keep the standard.
- Amber38–59 · 50–79%Improvement needed: a structured action plan within 30 days.
- Red0–37 · Below 50%Priority intervention, escalated to regional management.
Then close every gap
Each gap goes into the action plan tracker and moves through four stages until the auditor closes it.
- 1PendingOwner and close date set
- 2In progressWork under way, evidence gathered
- 3CompletedEvidence submitted for review
- 4ApprovedVerified and closed by the auditor
