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Mot Tester Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Diagnostic, MOT and EV experience is also desirable but not essential. Recruiting now for PDI Technician - Used Car Prep Tech - MOT Tester - Brand accredited Technician - Service Technician ...

Mot Tester information

See California salary details

$10

$37

$61

How much do mot tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for mot tester in California is $37.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $50.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an MOT tester?

An MOT tester is a trained and certified professional authorized to conduct MOT (Ministry of Transport) tests on vehicles in the UK. These tests are mandatory annual inspections designed to ensure vehicles meet road safety and environmental standards. MOT testers inspect various parts of the vehicle, such as brakes, lights, and emissions, and issue certificates if the vehicle passes. They must follow strict guidelines set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and maintain up-to-date qualifications to perform tests.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an MOT tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as an MOT Tester, you need a solid understanding of vehicle mechanics, diagnostics, and relevant UK MOT testing regulations, supported by a valid MOT Tester qualification and a Level 3 Vehicle Maintenance and Repair certificate. Familiarity with MOT testing equipment, digital reporting systems, and DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) platforms is essential. Attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication with customers are vital soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure vehicles meet safety standards, maintain legal compliance, and uphold public trust in the testing process.

What is the difference between Mot Tester vs Vehicle Inspector?

AspectMot TesterVehicle Inspector
Required CertificationsMot Testing License, relevant automotive qualificationsVehicle inspection certifications, often including Mot testing
Work EnvironmentAutomotive garages, testing centersInspection sites, regulatory agencies
Employer & Industry UsageCar repair shops, testing stationsGovernment agencies, safety inspection bodies

Mot Testers primarily focus on conducting annual safety and emissions tests on vehicles to ensure compliance with legal standards. Vehicle Inspectors may perform broader vehicle assessments, including detailed safety inspections and compliance checks beyond the Mot test. While both roles require similar certifications, Mot Testers are more specialized in testing procedures, whereas Vehicle Inspectors often have a wider scope of vehicle evaluation.

What are some common challenges MOT testers face during vehicle inspections, and how can they be managed?

MOT Testers often encounter challenges such as dealing with incomplete or poorly maintained vehicles, staying up-to-date with changing regulations, and ensuring consistent documentation. Managing these challenges involves ongoing training, careful attention to detail, and strong communication skills to explain test results to customers clearly. Additionally, working closely with colleagues in the workshop can help quickly resolve technical queries and ensure high-quality standards are maintained throughout the process.

What are popular job titles related to Mot Tester jobs in California?

For Mot Tester jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Mot Tester job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 69% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 30% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,746 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Vehicle Technician / Mechanic

Lookers

Bishop, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Vehicle Technician

Location: Bishop Stortford Land Rover
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent

Salary: OTE up to 52,480 (Uncapped); 31,000 to 46,000 basic depending on qualifications, plus 3,000 Productivity Bonus and Time Saved Bonus Scheme

Hours: 40 hours between Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm, plus 1 in 3 Saturday mornings

We're currently recruiting for various levels of Technicians to strengthen our growing team! 

Lookers Bishop Stortford Land Rover are recruiting for a Vehicle Technician / Mechanic to join their fantastic workshop. While working alongside experienced technicians  you will play a vital role, carrying out vehicle health checks using the latest technology, conducting vehicle services and carrying out any additional repairs. 

Bishop Stortford Land Rover, you will report to the accomplished Aftersales Manager, who will give on-going support to ensure you have the tools needed to succeed in your role. We can also offer you excellent career progression and training opportunities, including manufacturer accredited schemes and Hybrid & Electric training, to accelerate your career further!

Our Vehicle Technicians / Mechanics play a vital role within our Service team by delivering first class customer service every time. We want you to be part of our success. If you're a qualified Vehicle Technician or an experienced Mechanic, whether you work in a dealer group or independent garage, we want to hear from you! 

Responsibilities

  • Carrying out pre-delivery inspections on new and used vehicles
  • Carrying out checks in line with manufacturers guidelines
  • Fitting any additional accessories requested by the customer
  • Vehicle health check and report any further work which may be required
  • Checks on the vehicles' lights, tyre pressure, mechanical and electrical components
  • Completing minor repairs on new and used vehicles
  • Ability to understand and carry out basic diagnosis in both mechanical and electrical work
  • Conducting vehicle service in accordance with manufacturers guidelines and customer requests
  • Carrying out any additional repairs once authorised by the customer
  • Warranty repairs are per the manufacturer's guidelines and relevant write up is complete
  • Taking the customers vehicle out on a road test to ensure all faults are rectified
  • Complete all relevant paperwork to a high standard

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have minimum NVQ Level 3 in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair or equivalent, motor industry experience (brand or non-brand), and a full and valid UK driving licence. You'll be self-motivated whilst being able to support your team, ambitious and eager to learn, and are able to work to and maintain the highest of standards to all vehicles that take a spin through our doors.

Although previous brand experience is desirable, it is not essential, as brand accreditation training will be provided. Diagnostic, MOT and EV experience is also desirable but not essential.

Recruiting now for PDI Technician - Used Car Prep Tech -  MOT Tester - Brand accredited Technician - Service Technician - Maintenance Technician - Senior Technician - Systems Technician - Diagnostic Technician - Master Technician. Please note salary scale for this vacancy is 28,000 for a Prep / PDI Tech to 43,000 for an accredited Master Tech.