Training requirements for the IOE

Before submitting your SERMI application, it’s important to make sure you have the correct evidence of training or experience. Applications submitted without the required documentation cannot be approved and may be delayed while additional information is requested. Checking that you meet the requirements beforehand will help ensure your application is processed as smoothly as possible.

Experience or Qualification Requirement

To apply as an Independent Operator Employee (IOE) under the SERMI scheme, you must be able to demonstrate at least two years’ experience working as an automotive technician or mechanic.

You can provide this evidence in one of the following ways:

A contract of employment clearly showing you have worked as a mechanic or automotive technician for a minimum of two years, or
A recognised qualification certificate from the approved list.

If you are unsure whether your experience or qualifications meet the requirements, please check before submitting your application.

If you don’t have the Experience or Qualification Requirement

If you cannot provide one of the recognised certificates or suitable proof of experience, you can complete our On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) for SERMI course.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to on-board diagnostics (OBD) and the SERMI scheme, covering essential knowledge used in modern vehicle diagnostics. Topics include:

Understanding OBD/EOBD
Overview of emissions control legislation
Accessing vehicle self-diagnostic systems
Decoding diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
OBD2 readiness monitors
Standard code composition
The role of on-board diagnostics in modern vehicles
An introduction to the SERMI scheme

Making sure you have the correct evidence of experience or training before applying will help ensure your SERMI application can be reviewed without unnecessary delays.

SERMI gains rapid manufacturer support as 19 brands commit within days

Following the announcement on the 2^nd February of the SERMI go-live date in the UK, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) has confirmed an overwhelmingly positive response from vehicle manufacturers, with 19 brands committing to the SERMI scheme within days of being notified of approval. Further manufacturers are expected to follow.

The strong early uptake demonstrates the industry’s recognition of SERMI as a vital step forward for the independent sector, providing a secure and standardised route for independent garages to access vehicle security-related information.

Manufacturers already committed to SERMI include:

Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Citroën, Dodge, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Ford, Jaguar, Jeep®, Lancia, Land Rover, Maserati, Nissan, Opel, Peugeot, Ram Trucks, Toyota and Vauxhall.

Commenting on the announcement, Stuart James, Chief Executive of the IGA, said, ‘The response from vehicle manufacturers has been extremely positive. To have 19 on board within days of notifying them of UK approval shows just how important SERMI is to the future of our sector. This scheme will positively change the operational capability of independent garages and provide something we simply haven’t had in the UK before.’

While SERMI will not be relevant to every independent garage business, the IGA is keen to ensure that garages are fully informed and able to make the right decision for their own operations.

James added, ‘It’s essential that garages are secure in their own minds about whether SERMI is something they need. Our role is to continue providing clear and accurate information so businesses can make an informed choice that’s right for them.’

The IGA is also reminding garages that the SERMI set-up process includes government DBS checks, which can take up to two weeks, and in some cases longer. Garages are encouraged to factor this into their planning.

The Association will continue to communicate regularly with members and the wider independent sector to educate and inform businesses as SERMI adoption progresses.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Amy Leddington
Head of Marketing and Communications

Independent Garage Association
Phone: 01788 538 323
Email: amy.leddington@rmif.co.uk

About the Independent Garage Association (IGA):
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is the largest and most prominent trade association representing independent garages in the UK. The IGA supports its members by providing guidance, resources, and advocacy to ensure the success and sustainability of independent garages nationwide.

Independent Garage Association Highlights ADAS Safety Awareness and Member Support

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is responding to the growing national focus on vehicle safety technology, following the Government’s new Road Safety Strategy which identifies Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as a key tool in reducing collisions and serious injuries on UK roads.

With systems such as autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, intelligent speed assistance, blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control now common across the vehicle parc, correct calibration following repair and maintenance work is essential to ensure these safety features perform as intended. As attention on ADAS increases across the automotive sector, the IGA is highlighting the guidance and support available to help independent garages manage these systems safely and effectively.

ADAS features are designed to help prevent collisions and reduce injury, but their effectiveness depends on precise calibration and correct repair procedures. Even minor work can affect system accuracy, making professional awareness and competence vital. The IGA works closely with independent garages to provide guidance, training and practical resources that help technicians manage ADAS confidently, supporting both safe repairs and efficient day-to-day operations.

Jonathan Douglass, Director of the IGA, said, ‘ADAS is now a core component of vehicle safety and a central pillar of the Government’s Road Safety Strategy. Independent garages are at the forefront of ensuring these systems continue to operate correctly after repair and maintenance work. Our role is to provide clear, practical guidance and support so members can meet recalibration responsibilities with confidence, accuracy and professionalism as ADAS becomes an everyday part of vehicle servicing.’

Even routine work such as windscreen replacement, suspension or steering component replacement, wheel alignment, and body repairs can inadvertently affect ADAS calibration. The IGA encourages garages to follow manufacturer procedures, ensure technicians understand recalibration requirements, document work carried out, and communicate clearly with customers whenever recalibration is required.

To support members, the IGA provides a suite of resources including the Garage Guide to ADAS handbook, access to a technical helpline, and targeted training to help workshops navigate the growing complexity of modern vehicle systems.

Douglass concludes, ‘We recognise that ADAS recalibration can present practical challenges, whether that’s access to equipment, manufacturer data, or ongoing training. The IGA is here to help members overcome those challenges, ensuring independent garages can continue to deliver safe repairs and maintain customer trust as vehicle technology evolves.’

Independent garages seeking further information or advice on ADAS recalibration can contact the IGA on 01788 225 908 or via enquiries@rmif.co.uk.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Amy Leddington
Head of Marketing and Communications

Independent Garage Association
Phone: 01788 538 323
Email: amy.leddington@rmif.co.uk

About the Independent Garage Association (IGA):
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is the largest and most prominent trade association representing independent garages in the UK. The IGA supports its members by providing guidance, resources, and advocacy to ensure the success and sustainability of independent garages nationwide.

Independent Garage Association Opens Dialogue with Keir Mather MP

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has written to Keir Mather MP, opening lines of communication and reinforcing the urgent issues facing independent garages as a result of the stagnant MOT fee.

The IGA has a history of constructive engagement with government, including meetings held while Lilian Greenwood was in post, and is now seeking to build on that dialogue with Keir Mather to ensure continuity and progress on these critical issues.

In its letter, the IGA reiterated the significant financial pressures that garages are facing due to the MOT fee, which has remained unchanged since 2010 despite rising operational costs, inflation, and additional burdens introduced over the last 14 years. The Association highlighted that without urgent action, many garages will be forced to reassess the services they prioritise, potentially threatening the availability of MOT testing across the UK.

Stuart James, Chief Executive of the IGA, said, “It is essential that policymakers understand both the pressures and the pivotal role that independent garages play in maintaining safe and reliable motoring for UK drivers. By opening dialogue with Keir Mather MP, we are building on previous engagement to ensure these concerns remain firmly on the government’s agenda and that viable, long-term solutions are found.”

The IGA continues to call for a formal review of the MOT fee, alongside measures to support training and upskilling in the sector, ensuring garages can continue to invest in new technologies and deliver safe, reliable, and affordable MOT testing.

James concluded, “The IGA will persist in lobbying government and working with MPs to ensure a sustainable outcome for independent garages. It is vital that urgent steps are taken to support this essential service, which underpins road safety and consumer confidence across the UK.”

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Amy Leddington
Head of Marketing and Communications

Independent Garage Association
Phone: 01788 538 323
Email: amy.leddington@rmif.co.uk

About the Independent Garage Association (IGA):
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is the largest and most prominent trade association representing independent garages in the UK. The IGA supports its members by providing guidance, resources, and advocacy to ensure the success and sustainability of independent garages nationwide.

Ben’s latest survey shows stress remains automotive’s number one and growing issue – affecting 1 in 2 workers

Automotive industry charity, Ben, has launched this year’s annual health and wellbeing report revealing results from its most recent survey, which polled over 1,000 automotive workers. The top five health and wellbeing issues identified for automotive workers are stress (57%), poor sleep (52%), anxiety (44%), low mood (41%) and not taking time out (to rest or relax) (43%).

Almost all survey respondents were personally affected by a health & wellbeing issue during the previous year. Poor work-life balance has increased by 6%, to 38%, and this issue is most common for those working in showrooms, parts departments, and garages. Long hours, low staffing levels and high workloads are also growing concerns.

Mental health scores have got worse over the past 12 months and automotive workers cited they believe employers need to do more to support them, with 1 in 9 people personally affected by a lack of support for mental health in the workplace. The survey results continue to show that automotive workers are more likely to experience issues with work-life balance and mental health, compared to other UK workers. Furthermore, mental health issues remain the most prominent of the top 10 issues, affecting hundreds of people in the automotive industry.

The survey also revealed that almost 1 in 4 automotive workers are considering leaving the industry and, of these people, 1 in 2 are considering doing due to poor mental health.

Money worries remain a big problem for automotive workers with many still impacted by cost-of-living pressures. 1 in 6 people reported skipping meals, 1 in 5 have experienced issues with debt and 1 in 4 of those considering leaving the industry reported they had financial problems.

Get your copy of the report
For more insights, including a breakdown of results by industry sub-sector, sign up to receive your copy of the report here: www.ben.org.uk/surveyreport2025.

The survey is in its eighth year and aims to uncover the key health and wellbeing issues affecting the automotive industry workforce so that Ben can continue providing relevant health and wellbeing services and support for industry people and their families.

Rachel Clift, Chief Executive Officer at Ben, said: “This year’s survey results shed light on the biggest health and wellbeing challenges facing our automotive family. Our annual surveys offer a valuable opportunity to listen directly to those within our industry, helping us better understand their issues so we can provide the relevant services and support for automotive people and their families. These insights also allow us to engage with employers and industry partners, so we can collectively work towards improving the resilience, wellbeing and motivation of automotive workers and the industry as a whole.

“Stress remains the biggest issue for our automotive family, with many people citing they don’t feel they have enough time to switch off from work to rest and relax, as well as raising concerns over access to support. Money worries are also clearly continuing to impact on people’s lives, adding to these stresses. Unsurprisingly, the challenges we’re seeing are taking a toll on people’s mental health which is a continuing trend for our industry.

“Following these results, we want to ensure that everyone who works, or has worked, in the automotive industry knows we’re there for them, so please get in touch if you’re struggling by visiting www.ben.org.uk/gethelp. We also work closely with employers to support employees – you can read more in our full report, or by visiting www.ben.org.uk/business.”

-ENDS-

About Ben:
Ben is the charity dedicated to supporting the people of the automotive industry, providing health and wellbeing support for life for them and their family dependents.

Ben provides life-changing and often lifesaving support for those who are struggling or in crisis.

Ben supports individuals to navigate through life’s challenges, empowering them to make positive, lasting change. Ben works with people to improve their lives by enhancing their health and wellbeing through its free and confidential online self-help, helpline, support and specialist services.

Ben’s support empowers automotive people to better manage their health and wellbeing, helping them to think well, feel well, live well and in turn work well. Ben’s support is tailored and relevant to the needs of the individual, based on a wide range of support options available and addressing every aspect of a person’s life.

For more information on Ben, visit www.ben.org.uk.

For further information, please contact:

Leila Moss-Kelly
Communications, Content & Impact Manager, Ben
leila.moss-kelly@ben.org.uk
Direct dial: 01344 298 126

IGA Chair demonstrates perseverance for BEN following stage 4 cancer treatment

In a remarkable display of resilience and dedication, Rob Collison, Chairman of the Independent Garage Association (IGA), has completed a gruelling Sahara Desert trek in support of the automotive industry charity, BEN. This extraordinary achievement comes in the wake of his personal battle with stage 4 cancer, a journey that has inspired many within and beyond the automotive community.

A former Royal Navy Submariner and Diver, Rob was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and has since undergone treatment. Determined to give back, he joined BEN’s “Industry Leader Challenge,” a high-endurance trek across the Sahara Desert held at the end of February, raising a staggering £34,500 for the charity.

BEN, a dedicated support charity for people who work, or have worked, in the automotive industry, runs the challenge to bring leaders together and raise vital funds to support mental health, wellbeing, and crisis support services. Rob’s participation represents not only his deep commitment to the sector but also a powerful message of perseverance.

“There is life after cancer,” said Rob. “This challenge was about proving that point to myself and to others and giving back to an industry that has given so much to me. BEN is a lifeline for many, and I’m proud to have contributed to its mission.”

Stuart James, Chief Executive of the IGA, said: “Rob’s achievement is nothing short of inspirational. His strength, determination, and passion for supporting our industry reflect the very best qualities of leadership. We are proud to have him as Chair of the IGA, and we applaud his incredible efforts to raise vital funds for BEN.”

To learn more about BEN and its services, visit https://ben.org.uk.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Amy Leddington
Head of Marketing and Communications

Independent Garage Association
Phone: 01788 538 323
Email: amy.leddington@rmif.co.uk

View Recent Press Releases from the IGA:

IGA urges Government action as financial pressures mount on Independent Garages

Despite repeated calls for targeted support, independent garages once again find themselves overlooked at a time when rising costs continue to escalate across the sector.

As of the 6^th April, employers now pay 15% rate of National Insurance contributions (NIC) for their employees, up from 13.8%. The threshold at which employers begin paying NIC has also been lowered from £9,100 per year to £5,000 per year, meaning contributions start at a much earlier point in staff salaries.

This comes in addition to increases in the National Minimum Wage and other rising operational costs.

The increase in employer contributions places an additional burden on independent garages already facing significant financial strain. It will not only exacerbate the day-to-day operational challenges they face, but also inevitably restrict opportunities for business growth, investment, and recruitment.

The IGA has consistently called for meaningful relief for the independent garage sector, urging recognition of its essential role in keeping the UK’s motorists safe and their vehicles roadworthy. The IGA has highlighted the intense pressure from surging energy bills, equipment prices, and staffing costs, all of which remain unaddressed by policymakers.

Jonathan Douglass, Director of the IGA, said: “The latest increase to National Insurance contributions is yet another blow to independent garages, which have already endured relentless cost hikes with little recognition or relief from Government. These businesses provide essential road safety services to motorists and local communities, yet they continue to be left behind.”

The added financial pressure not only affects the sustainability of these garages but also directly limits their ability to grow, invest in new talent, or modernise operations. The Government must urgently reconsider its approach to ensure that independent garages are not adversely affected by policy that undermines confidence and holds back investment, or worse still, threatens closure.

Douglass concludes: “The IGA continues to advocate for fair treatment and meaningful engagement with the independent garage sector. We urge the Government to work with the IGA to create policies that foster business resilience and growth rather than stifle it.”

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Amy Leddington
Marketing and Communications Manager

Independent Garage Association
Phone: 01788 538 323
Email: amy.leddington@rmif.co.uk

About the Independent Garage Association (IGA):
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is the largest and most prominent trade association representing independent garages in the UK. The IGA supports its members by providing guidance, resources, and advocacy to ensure the success and sustainability of independent garages nationwide.

IGA meets with government to discuss MOT Fee

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) holds high level meeting with policy makers from both DfT and DVSA to discuss growing financial pressure being put on garages and the stagnant MOT fee cap.

During the meeting, the IGA presented compelling evidence that the fee cap, unchanged since 2010, along with increasing operational costs is putting independent garages under unsustainable financial pressure. Without government intervention, garages are likely to re-assess which services return the greatest yield, ensuring they are generating enough revenue to cover business costs. This could lead to obstacles in maintaining MOT services as a priority, contributing to longer wait times, higher costs for motorists, and potential risks to road safety.

Stuart James, CEO said: “The independent garage sector plays a crucial role in ensuring the UK maintains its position as a world leader in road safety and providing affordable, accessible MOT services to millions of motorists. However, the outdated MOT fee cap is placing financial strain on garages. If the Government does not act swiftly, providing a solution that protects the MOT credibility while still keeping MOT tests a viable service for garages, we risk a decline in MOT service availability, which could lead to more unroadworthy vehicles on UK roads. The IGA is calling for urgent policy intervention to secure the future of independent garages and protect motorists.”

The IGA has outlined several key recommendations, including:

A formal review of the MOT fee cap to ensure sustainability for independent garages.
Increased funding for training and upskilling to address the shortage of technicians and MOT testers and support the transition to servicing electric vehicles.

With the Autumn Budget 2024 expected to introduce further financial pressures, through potential tax changes and potential business rate increases, the IGA is reinforcing its call for urgent government action to prevent further damage to the industry and ensure the continued availability of high-quality, affordable MOT services.

James concludes: “The IGA remains committed to advocating for independent garages, ensuring they receive the support they need to operate sustainably. We will continue to engage with policymakers to push for meaningful change, safeguarding the future of the sector and protecting the UK’s world leading road safety standards.”

MOT Testers must complete Annual Assessment ahead of 31st March Deadline

With the 31st of March deadline fast approaching, we are reminding all MOT testers of the urgent need to complete their mandatory annual training and assessment to avoid suspension from testing duties.

Recent figures show that over 20,000 testers are still outstanding, meaning a significant number risk being unable to carry out MOT tests if they do not act now.

Failing to complete the annual assessment before the deadline will result in immediate suspension from testing. To regain testing status, suspended testers must complete the current year’s training and assessment and then pass a demonstration test with a DVSA representative. Additionally, any testers returning after a lapse or suspension are required to submit a basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, adding further delays to the reinstatement process.

Why this matters to your Garage

If a tester is suspended, it can have a serious impact on your garage’s operations, leading to reduced MOT capacity, financial losses, and inconvenience for your customers. Keeping on top of training ensures that vehicles remain roadworthy and compliant with safety standards, helping to protect both your business and the wider public.

What Testers need to do now

To avoid last-minute issues or disruptions, we strongly advise testers to:

Complete Training Early – Don’t leave it until the last minute, ensure you finish your assessment well before 31st March.
Be Fully Prepared – Use the available training resources to make sure you understand the assessment content.
Stay Up to Date – Regularly check DVSA communications for any changes to requirements.

The RMI Academy provides a range of annual training options to ensure your testers can meet their requirements in a way that suits your business.

To book an Annual Training package or discuss your options, contact the RMI Helpline on 01788 538 399.

The IGA seeks industry input ahead of crucial meeting

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is calling on independent garage owners and operators to provide critical input ahead of a key meeting regarding the long-standing MOT fee freeze and the financial impact of the recent Autumn Budget.

The IGA has been invited to discuss these pressing issues at a meeting on the 11^thMarch, with the office of Lilian Greenwood MP. The association is keen to present concrete evidence on how these financial constraints are affecting businesses across the sector.

The government’s MOT fee freeze has placed mounting financial pressure on independent garages, exacerbated by increasing operational costs. Additionally, new financial measures introduced in the Autumn Budget pose further challenges to the sector. This meeting represents a crucial opportunity to ensure policymakers fully understand the impact these factors have on independent garages nationwide.

Jonathan Douglass, Director of the IGA, said: “This is an important opportunity to make our collective voice heard at the highest levels. The MOT fee freeze and increasing financial pressures are unsustainable for independent garages, and we need real-world data to support our case. Your input will help us advocate for meaningful change.”

To build a strong, evidence-based case, the IGA is seeking data and insights from businesses on the following topics:

The rising costs of operating an MOT station since 2010, including equipment, training, and maintenance expenses.
Increases in overhead costs, utilities, and insurance.
Salary increases for MOT testers and staff since 2010.
The financial impact of the National Insurance increase in April.
The effect of minimum wage increases from April.
Any other relevant financial or operational challenges impacting independent garages.

All information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence and anonymised where necessary.

Douglass concludes, “We have reached out to our members and the response so far has been overwhelming. The challenges faced by independent garages are significant, and this meeting is a critical step toward addressing these issues. We appreciate the support and urge everyone to contribute their insights to strengthen our case.”

The IGA is compiling this crucial information ahead of the scheduled meeting on 11th March. Businesses are encouraged to submit their data and insights by Wednesday, 5th March, to IGAcomms@rmif.co.uk.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Amy Leddington
Marketing and Communications Manager

Independent Garage Association
Phone: 01788 538 323
Email: amy.leddington@rmif.co.uk

About the Independent Garage Association (IGA):
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is the largest and most prominent trade association representing independent garages in the UK. The IGA supports its members by providing guidance, resources, and advocacy to ensure the success and sustainability of independent garages nationwide.

The IGA is stepping up to advocate for independent garage owners amid rising costs

In a world where independent garages are feeling the pinch from a new round of costs, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) is stepping up to advocate for these dedicated business owners.

With mounting pressures from operational expenses and ongoing uncertainty over new layers of cost being imposed on garage businesses over many years, especially following the Autumn Budget of 2024, many garages are being forced to assess all areas of their business. Careful consideration of return on investment is now essential to ensure sustainability and profitability.

Jonathan Douglass, Director of the IGA, said “We understand the challenges our independent garages are facing. It’s important for them to know they have the option and the means to review and, where possible, realign their prices to reflect the value of their services. At a time where increasing income is becoming more of a necessity, we’re here to help independent garages assess their strategies while speaking up on their behalf about cost burdens outside of their control.”

For many independent garage owners, the situation is becoming increasingly difficult. Escalating wage costs, increasing overheads, such as property rent and utilities, and, since the last budget, the looming prospect of even higher payroll costs, are all significantly impacting margins, making it tough to maintain a sustainable operation.

Having recently been invited to a meeting to discuss the implications and find a practical solution to the unchanged MOT Fee Cap, the IGA is committed to collaborating with the government to ensure independent garages are not only supported but able to sustain their services.

Douglass continues, “We are here to help independent garages find a solution to these burdens. We believe in the strength of our community and want to empower them to take control of their pricing. We set out to help garage owners enhance their livelihood while continuing to provide first-class service to their customers.”

The IGA is encouraging owners to assess their costs and feel confident in adjusting their prices as necessary where they can.

Douglass concludes “It’s vital to set rates that are fair to their garage as well as their customers. To support members with these challenging decisions, the IGA provides access to a custom Labour Rate Calculator to help them get the full picture of their business costs and potential charge-out rates. The intention is that garages can base their labour charges on a percentage rate of their costs in an easy-to-use visual way, rather than basing their labour rate on what others may or may not be charging. This isn’t just about survival; it’s about thriving in an ever-changing, increasingly complex business landscape.”

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Amy Leddington
Marketing and Communications Manager

Independent Garage Association
Phone: 01788 538 323
Email: amy.leddington@rmif.co.uk

About the Independent Garage Association (IGA):
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is the largest and most prominent trade association representing independent garages in the UK. The IGA supports its members by providing guidance, resources, and advocacy to ensure the success and sustainability of independent garages nationwide.