PVD Member Approval Process - Pro Valets Valeters and Detailers Directory

Four steps to becoming PVD Approved

The Professional Valeters & Detailers Trade Association prides itself on presenting customers with safe, reliable, and technically proficient car care professionals - whether they are searching for a mobile valeter or unit-based detailer. It is paramount that we ensure all our members meet and maintain high standards in these areas, so when a client sees that a valeter or detailer is PVD Approved, they know they can rely on them to look after their vehicle.

With this in mind, we have developed a four-step approval process for those wishing to join the Association, outlined here.

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1: Prerequisites

There are various criteria that candidates need to meet prior to moving forward to the Accreditation stage. We ask that candidates ensure they meet these minimum standards, and can provide evidence that they have done so prior to completing the application form, these include:

At least one full year trading as a primary occupation
Appropriate insurance - full requirements HERE
At least 25 positive, independent, & verifiable reviews
Evidence of formal training, shadowing, or apprenticeship
Evidence of consistently professional online conduct
Have a thorough working knowledge and understanding of car care principles and methodology
Have a sustainable service and pricing structure
Have read our Code of Conduct and agree to comply with it

2: Accreditation

The Accreditation process is carried out remotely and requires the completion of the application form. We will likely call or email candidates for further specific information as required. Areas that we look at include:

Insurance certificate and schedule verification
Evidence of stated trading time
Evidence of stated training
Evidence of independent reviews
Evidence of appropriate service terminology
Evidence of appropriate pricing structure
Evidence of professional online conduct
Evidence of good working practices

3: Assessment

We hold Assessment days throughout the country at various locations. The written assessment lasts 60 minutes and examines both knowledge and understanding of the technical and commercial aspects of professional car care. This is taken online through secure examination software and remotely invigilated via video conference. It is a closed-book test and each exam is different based on a selection of 100 questions from a question bank. The practical assessment focuses on technical proficiency and safe working practice and is split into two 90 minute sessions. The cost of assessment is covered in the joining fee of £175 that is payable in advance. In the event of failing the assessment, candidates will be given key areas to improve on and offered a free re-test to be taken at least 3 months after the initial test. In the event a candidate fails the re-test, £75 of the joining fee will be refunded, and the candidate will be able to re-apply a minimum of 12 months after the re-test. The assessment focuses on the following areas:

Awareness of safe working practice
Demonstration of technical proficiency
Understanding of chemical safety principles
Professionalism and commercial awareness
Knowledge of legal obligations
Customer care

4: Approval

On completion of the Assessment stage we will advise candidates as to whether or not they have been passed. Those that have passed will be granted PVD Approved status, and will gain all the benefits of membership including: