Auto advice: I can’t get an appointment for an NCT test due to long delays — what can I do?

Published on 5 February, 2023

Overview

Why is there such a backlog with National Car Test bookings? The National Car Testing Service (NCTS) has had staffing issues for a number of years but the situation has been worsened by backlogs created during lockdown. Even when testing centres reopened fully, Covid continued to affect operations. It’s likely also the flu season, rate of RSV infections and prevalence of Covid in the community are all affecting staffing numbers and absenteeism.

My NCT is due to expire in two weeks’ but the next available appointment is three months away. What can I can do?
If you urgently require a test, you can be put on a priority list. This can be done via the web booking facility and can be found at the end of the initial booking page where you enter your vehicle registration. Or telephone the NCTS hotline directly on (01) 413-5992 (Monday-Thursday, 8am to 8pm; Friday, 8am -6pm). The NCT service says most people on the list will get an appointment within four weeks.​

​Is my insurance still valid if my NCT has expired?
Insurance Ireland has stated that its members will be pragmatic and understanding in their approach to the current delays at the NCTS. Cover will continue to be provided where customers, through no fault of their own, are unable to obtain an NCT appointment. Motor insurance and road traffic legislation require that motorists maintain their vehicles in a roadworthy condition at all times and this remains the case. Under the current circumstances, provided motorists make every effort to book appointments in the normal way, insurers will recognise the current issue is not the fault of the customer.​

​What if I am stopped by gardaí and don’t have a valid NCT certificate?
It’s the responsibility of the car owner to ensure their car is kept in a roadworthy condition at all times. A delay in getting an NCT appointment does not absolve drivers of this responsibility. If you are stopped and have not got a valid NCT certificate then ensure you can produce evidence of a date for a test having been scheduled or can show the vehicle is on the priority waiting list.

Top Tip: You can have your car tested up to 90 days before your NCT due date. If you want to have your car tested before the 90 days you can avail of Voluntary Early Testing.

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