Inspection Technician
Learn more about the standards and assessment process for the Inspection Technician licence.
What are the requirements?
Skills and knowledge requirements
The minimum entry requirement is three years’ industrial experience or a Level 3 S/NVQ (or equivalent qualification), plus at least one years’ experience in a relevant industrial environment.
For Employers
The technician must be able to work unsupervised and ideally be in full time employment to ensure they are familiar with the skills, knowledge and techniques associated with vehicle inspection.
Code of Conduct
Please click here to view the irtec Code of Conduct that all irtec licence holders should uphold.
The Assessment Process
Technicians must complete an online test, followed by a number of practical assessments to be completed over the course of 12 months. Practical assessments can be carried out at an irtec centre or the workplace (additional charges may be applicable) by an irtec-approved assessor.
As part of the online underpinning knowledge test there are 40 questions relating to vehicle inspection procedures, standards, defect categorisation and legislation with a Pass mark of 70%. During the test, Technicians may use the relevant DVSA HGV or PSV Inspection Manual and the Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness, linked below.
Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness
- Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV)
- Practical Assessment 1.5 hours
Underpinning Knowledge Tests 1 hour
40 Questions – Pass mark of 70%
- Practical Assessment 1.5 hours
- Public Service Vehicle (PSV)
- Practical Assessment 1.5 – 2 hours
Underpinning Knowledge Tests 1 hour
40 Questions – Pass mark of 70%
- Practical Assessment 1.5 – 2 hours
- Heavy Vehicle Trailer (HVT)
- Practical Assessment 1 – 1.5 hours
Underpinning Knowledge Tests 1 hour
40 Questions – Pass mark of 70%
- Practical Assessment 1 – 1.5 hours
- Medium Goods Vehicle (MGV)
- Practical Assessment 1 – 1.5 hours
Underpinning Knowledge Tests 1 hour
40 Questions – Pass mark of 70%
- Practical Assessment 1 – 1.5 hours
Who it benefits
The irtec Licence Scheme offers benefits for both the technicians who hold the licence, and their employers.
- Demonstrate proof of technical competence
- Recognition of your knowledge & expertise
- Prove commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- Eligibility for a Halfords trade discount card
- Customers can be confident in vehicle safety
- An irtec-licenced workforce strengthens your business’s credibility
- Gain a competitive advantage in the industry
- Identify training needs for your staff
Ready to get accredited?
Choose your irtec licence and find your nearest assessment centre.
irtec Licence FAQs
Have questions about the irtec Licence Scheme?
- What is irtec?
irtec is an independent accreditation that validates the competence of technicians working in the commercial vehicle, trailer and passenger transport industries. It assesses both practical skills and technical knowledge. It is widely recognised across the industry as a benchmark of competence and professionalism.
- Who is irtec for?
irtec is designed for technicians working on HGVs, PSVs and trailers. It also benefits employers looking to demonstrate high maintenance standards and build trust with customers.
- What are the benefits of holding an irtec licence?
An irtec licence provides independent proof of your skills, recognises your expertise, supports your commitment to CPD, and can give you a competitive edge in the industry. irtec licence holders are eligible for a free Halfords Trade Card, giving access to discounts on a wide range of products and services.
- How does irtec benefit employers?
Employers benefit from increased credibility, improved vehicle safety assurance, and the ability to identify training needs. Having irtec licenced staff can also strengthen your position in contracts and public inquiries.
- How do I get irtec accredited?
To get accredited, find the licence that is relevant to you and apply through an approved assessment centre. You can use the directory on this page to find a centre near you.
- How long does an irtec licence last?
All irtec licences are typically valid for five years, except for Large Electric Vehicle licence, which expires after three. Upon expiry, you can apply to renew your licence and resit the exams.