What are CPD Requirements?

 

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a process of documenting and tracking skills, experience, and knowledge gained informally and formally as you work.  It is a learning process that allows you to become more proactive and conscious rather than reactive and passive.

It is a combination of various methodologies such as events and conferences, training workshops, best practice techniques, and the e-learning program.

CPD ensures that you stay updated with both the practical and academic qualifications. You will be allowed to upskill yourself regardless of age, occupation, and educational level.

Training Or Development, The Difference

These terms are used interchangeably, however, there is a difference to it as well. Training focuses on learning something specific, it is more linear and formal. It can be as simple as using a   computer application or as hard as training to be a pilot.

Development on the other hand is quite informal and works on a much broader perspective. There are a variety of things that you can do regarding competency and capability. You get a basic idea about more mature, advanced, and complex understanding.

CPD for MOT testers

Since we went through what CPD actually means, let's get down to business. CPD is a self-development course no matter what field you work in. Similarly, it also is for the MOT testers, yes they need to refresh their skills, too. And to be honest, it is a necessity.

Every time DVSA Vehicle Examiners come by your MOT garage, the first thing they ask you is not just about the training that you receive annually, but also the CPD log that proves that you have been refreshing yourself with Special Notices. In case you are wondering ‘where can I find a reliable MOT garage near me?”, the tip is to find out whether they are certified and receive the CPD training every year.

CPD Requirements

Every year, the testers have to go through a training that lasts 3 hours, which is a minimum of 16 hours for a 5 year time period.  It doesn't just sound, but it actually is something that can easily be fulfilled especially when you get hold of that certificate makes it all worth it.

The topics vary every year depending upon what the DVSA chooses. The Annual Assessment consists of 30 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). A minimum of 70% is required for you to pass the assessment.

Here is something probably you wouldn’t know, you do not have to take the exam all at once. You can simply just login and pause as many times as you wish. So yes, if you prefer to attempt one question a day, you can do it.

Group A Testers

The training for this group covers:

1. Tester Quality Information
2. How to protect your Data
3. Changes in the MOT tests
4. Lighting and signaling equipment, tires and wheels, body and structure
5. Brakes- radial brakes and floating discs

Group B Testers

This includes:

1. Tester Quality Information
2. Data protection
3. Alternative fuel Vehicles
4. Changes in the MOT test
5. Tires and wheels, headlamp aim, driver’s view of the road, corrosion

All the testers must maintain a record of their 5-year CPD training. The dates of the training, how long it lasted, the topics taught vehicle groups, and what all you learned should be all documented.

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