Defining True Excellence in the Automotive Repair Industry Through Professional Body Membership

In today’s fast-moving automotive world, keeping pace with innovation is more important than ever—especially in the Motor Body Repair (MBR) and Insurance sectors.

While the Vehicle Damage Quantification (VDQ) Qualification, registered with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), establishes a baseline of competence, it is no longer enough on its own to define a true professional.

What now sets professionals apart is an ongoing commitment to continuous learning, ethical conduct, and adherence to the standards of a recognised professional body. The VDQGBSA—recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)—serves this role for Certified Vehicle Damage Quantifiers. Holding the VDQ title is just the beginning; maintaining it requires compliance with a strict framework of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and governance protocols.

As Steve Kessel, Competence Portfolio Director of VDQGBSA, notes, “A qualification may open the door, but ongoing CPD is the key to staying relevant and competent in a fast-changing automotive landscape.” This sentiment reflects the core mission of the VDQGBSA: to uphold professional standards and support practitioners in staying at the forefront of technological and methodological change.

Membership of the VDQGBSA carries both prestige and responsibility. It offers official industry recognition, supports the development of technical expertise, and ensures members uphold the integrity of the profession. Compliance with the CPD Policy is not merely encouraged—it is legislated under SAQA regulations. Members must log CPD activities over a three-year cycle, engage with new technologies and repair techniques, and participate in technical workshops and assessments via the VDQGBSA’s digital platform.

The professional journey typically begins with completing the VDQ Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process, followed by obtaining the official Certified VDQ designation. Maintaining this status ensures members benefit from networking, skills development, and career support through the VDQGBSA's national community of regulated professionals.

The impact of this professional framework extends across the entire industry. Insurers and repairers enjoy enhanced accuracy, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Consumers benefit too: “Certified Professional” assessors are more likely to accurately assess complex repairs on advanced vehicles, ensuring work is carried out to OEM standards and providing peace of mind, says Kessel.

In recognition of the importance of professional development, VDQGBSA has partnered with MERSETA to offer fully funded VDQ Qualification support to eligible applicants. This funding, available until 30th September 2025, is limited and issued on a first-come, first-served basis—representing a valuable investment in the future of the industry.

As the sector continues to evolve, professional body membership is no longer optional. It is a vital part of maintaining excellence, safety, and trust in the automotive repair profession.

For more information on joining the VDQGBSA community, contact info@vdqgbsa.co.za or visit www.vdqgbsa.co.za.