IRTEC vehicle inspection for HGV and passenger transport
IRTEC is an independent, renewable accreditation scheme that measures the competence of technicians working across the HGV, heavy vehicle trailer (HVT) and PSV sectors. Technicians are assessed on both their technical knowledge and practical ability, and successful candidates are awarded an IRTEC licence.
Created by the Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE) and quality assured by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), IRTEC is a recognised technician accreditation scheme within the road transport industry.
An IRTEC licence is awarded to the individual technician (not the employer) and is based on current competence. Licences are valid for 5 years, after which they expire and must be renewed.
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To achieve IRTEC accreditation, a technician must complete a series of practical assessments and a knowledge test at an IRTEC-approved assessment centre.
Before booking an assessment, technicians must evidence relevant experience in the automotive industry. The amount of experience needed depends on the IRTEC route being applied for and any current qualifications already held. Some candidates may also benefit from additional training beforehand to address any gaps in knowledge or practical skills.
Once registered, all required assessments must be successfully completed within 12 months of the first assessment date.
On the day of assessment, technicians are required to:
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agree to follow the IRTEC Code of Conduct
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have a photograph taken for their ID card (if successful)
After accreditation is achieved, the technician’s details are added to the IRTEC register of accredited technicians. To stay current with new and emerging technologies, technicians must be re-assessed every 5 years to maintain their accreditation and licence.
Most practical assessments take place at an IRTEC-approved centre, however some may be completed in the workplace under controlled conditions by an approved IRTEC assessor (additional costs may apply).