Inspection Technician

The minimum entry requirement is 3 years industrial experience or a Level 3 S/NVQ (or equivalent qualification) plus at least one year's experience in a relevant industrial environment.

In order to achieve an irtec licence, a technician must first carry out an hour-long theory (Under Pinning Knowledge) test at an irtec-approved assessment centre, before completing a practical assessment.

Practical assessments are carried out at an irtec-approved assessment centre, although they can be carried out in the workplace (under controlled conditions) by an irtec-approved assessor (additional charges may be applicable).

Once accredited, irtec technicians agree to abide by the irtec code of conduct (link please), receive a licence card, certificate and are placed on the irtec technicians register. As an additional benefit, irtec licence holders are eligible to apply for a free Halfords Trade Card.

The practical assessments in the Inspection Technician Licence are as follows:

  1. Inspection of Vehicles
  2. VOSA/OCRS (theory test)

As part of the under pinning knowledge test related to your industry sector you will also be asked fifty theory questions, e.g. large commercial vehicle, bus and coach or trailer.

30% of the questions will be legislation related, 70% will be technical.

Once you have completed the Under Pinning Knowledge theory test, you have 12 months in which to successfully complete all the practical assessments.