Online PAT Testing Courses

We’re often asked if we offer an online PAT testing course. We don’t, and that’s a deliberate choice. PAT testing isn’t just theory. It’s a practical skill involving visual inspection, correct test selection, safe working practices, and the confidence to interpret results and make the right decision when something doesn’t look right.

There are plenty of low-cost “packaged” online PAT courses available, often sold by general training providers. Some of these can be useful as background reading, but they can’t replace supervised hands-on practice with real equipment, real faults and real questions.

Why hands-on training matters

To be competent, you need more than a certificate. You need to be able to:

• Select the correct tests for the equipment type and class (and know when a test is not appropriate).
• Set up and use PAT instruments correctly (including leads, accessories and safe connections).
• Recognise common (and uncommon) faults through inspection, not just through a pass/fail screen.
• Understand what results mean, and what action to take when equipment fails or is repeatedly damaged.

This is exactly where in-person training helps: you can handle different equipment types, see realistic faults, and ask questions as they arise.

We’re PAT testing specialists

Plugtest is focused on PAT training, equipment and specialist advice, rather than offering a generic online training library. Our courses are built around the IET Code of Practice approach, with practical exercises and real-world examples throughout.

Attending a course

We run hands-on PAT courses at venues across the UK, as well as at our training centre in Cambridgeshire. You’ll work with real appliances and equipment so you leave with practical confidence, not just a slide deck.

If you already have a PAT tester, you’re welcome to bring it along and we’ll help you get familiar with your specific model. If you have several people to train, we can also arrange onsite training at your location.

To find a course near you, start here: PAT testing courses. If you’d like advice on which course is best, please get in touch.