Get the recognition you deserve

You've taken the first steps into an exciting automotive career, so why not take the next and join the IMI and get the recognition you deserve

Of course you need the right qualifications, but you also need to show that you're serious about doing right by the industry. Employers and customers want the reassurance of dealing with people who are respected for their professional attitude and know what they're talking about.

You have earned the right to become a member of the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), either during your studies or now that you have qualified. Membership gives you the recognition you need to stand out from the crowd.

The smart move is joining the motor industry’s professional association – the IMI.

It’s our job to recognise qualified people in the retail motor industry and help them in their careers so we can raise professional standards.

The motor industry is so hi-tech that you need to keep up-to-date. Getting ahead in your career means earning respect. This respect gives you better prospects and better rewards.

Belonging to the IMI at the start of your career will ensure you stay on track. We’ve got over 25,000 members who are proud to be professionals – prove you are one too by joining them.

To Join

To join the IMI you need to have a minimum of a Level 2 national qualification, 12 months experience in the motor industry and you must be 16 or over. If you are doing your apprenticeship, this means you can join the IMI at the end of Year 2 - provided you have achieved the N/SVQ Level 2.

IMI membership proves you are professionally qualified. By signing the IMI’s Code of Conduct you have shown your commitment to the industry, employers and customers, which could increase your earning power.

Once you are in, IMI membership gives you a competitive edge in the jobs market.


You get a special certificate, a membership card and letters after your name which tells others that you will be professional at all times.

Being professional in your work will gain the respect and trust of your boss, your colleagues and customers, which will help boost your career.


For that added status, vehicle technicians can also apply for one of the IMI’s special automotive engineering grades, according to your qualifications:

Certified Automotive Engineer (CAE)
Advanced Automotive Engineer (AAE)

Join now

It's simple to apply for IMI Membership, just click here to download the special application form PDF and start getting the benefits of Membership

Benefits

Look at what else IMI membership gives you:

• NUS - as an IMI Member you can apply for NUS Membership.   

• Free Legal Link help-line, where you can get expert legal advice when you need it.

• Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme to help you keep up-to-date and build up your skills.

• If you’re into Motorbikes, Motorsport, or even Classic cars, you can meet other members with the same interests for factory tours, race meetings and other events.

• Discounts on selected products.

• We give you a heads-up on how to stay out in front - information, making contacts, further training, exclusive benefits, the best jobs on offer, and career advice including Autocity which has been designed to give you an insight into the diverse roles available in the retail motor industry.

• The IMI’s own publication, Motor Industry Magazine, is delivered to your door 10 times a year and it’s packed with all the latest industry news, hottest features, technical info and top jobs.

• Our web-site has special Members Only areas for advice and guidance on loads of subjects to keep you in the picture.

Progress to the next level

As we help you progress in your career, you can move to higher grades of IMI membership. Each one increases your status in the industry and helps you fulfil your potential.

There are 4 different grades, according to what qualifications you hold and how much experience you have. The letters after your name refer to your personal grade.


Licentiate (LIMI)
Level 2 national qualification or equivalent (e.g. N/SVQ Level 2 or Technical Certificate, ATA Service Maintenance Technician) + 12 months experience in the retail motor industry.

Associate (AMIMI)
Level 3 national qualification or equivalent (e.g. N/SVQ Level 3, ATA Diagnostic Technician) + 3 years experience in the retail motor industry.

Member (MIMI)
Level 4 national qualification or equivalent (e.g. Certificate of management Studies, BTEC HND, N/SVQ Level 4, ATA Master Technician) + 3 years relevant experience, of which at least 2 years must be in the retail motor industry.

Fellow (FIMI)
Highest level of IMI membership - Level 5 national qualification or equivalent (e.g. Diploma of Management Studies, MBA) + 5 years experience in senior management, of which at least 2 years must be in the retail motor industry.