Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA)

Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA)

Automotive Technician Accreditation – ATA

ATA is a national voluntary scheme which tests the current competence of individuals working in the retail motor industry, who are committed to an ethical code of conduct.  With the increasing complexity and sophistication of vehicles and a shortage of skilled individuals, there has never been a greater need for competent technicians.  Many IMI Awards approved centres offer ATA assessments to gain accreditation in the different routes and levels of the scheme (see table below).

Who is ATA suitable for?

ATA is suitable for technicians working in a variety of sectors within the automotive industry (e.g light vehicle or motorcycle maintenance, roadside assistance, accident repair, autoglazing, parts distribution and customer service etc.)

How do you become accredited?

• To achieve accreditation, you must pass a series of practical assessments and an on-line knowledge test at an IMI Awards assessment that has been approved to offer ATA for your chosen route/level
• Most ATA assessments last a full day, but some are considerably longer e.g. senior panel technician accreditation takes 3 days
• Before you can take an assessment you must be able to prove your experience of working in that sector of the industry. The length of experience required will depend upon the ATA route/level and/or the qualifications you already hold.  You may also find that you need training to close any gaps in your skills prior to the assessment
• You must successfully complete all the assessments within a 12 month period from the first assessment date
• You are allowed to re-take up to two assessments.  If you are referred on more than two, you will have to take them all again 
• On the assessment day you must sign the ATA Code of Conduct.  You will also have your photograph taken in readiness for the ID card issued to successful candidates
• Once you have achieved your accreditation, your details will be entered on the ATA website register of accredited technicians
• To ensure that you have kept up-to-date with new technologies, you will have to be re-assessed every 5 years to maintain your accreditation

How can our organisation offer ATA assessments?

To find out how to become an IMI Awards approved centre and offer ATA click here for more information