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How to Book Your NCT – Here is the Quickest Way to do it!

Thinking about NCT done for your car? Well, it is better to get it done asap. It is a mandatory car inspection process for Irish vehicles and should be completed once your vehicle is 4 years old.

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The main objective behind NCT is to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive on Ireland’s roads. The program also contributes to enhancing road safety and protecting the environment by reducing carbon emissions released by vehicles in Ireland.

Got the notification to attend the NCT test? Worried about how to book your NCT? Want to get the test done faster without hassles? Here, read on all about booking the test.

Which vehicle components are checked during the NCT test?

All the components of your vehicle that are visible and can be accessed are tested during NCT tests.
As the vehicle owner, ensure that the vehicle undergoes regular maintenance by expert mechanics. It will ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive at all times.

Are you worried about the NCT test? Do not worry! We will make it a hassle-free process for you. With a few clicks, you can book your NCT

What all do you need for the NCT test?

  • Vehicle registration number/Logbook.
  • Test fee

It is normal to postpone booking NCT in Ireland. But, doing it on time comes easy than delaying it. It is a mandatory test for vehicles used for more than four years. To keep your vehicle on the road, make sure you book NCT every two years.

How to Book NCT?

If you are doing it for the first time, it may be a little cumbersome task for you. So, read the steps below to understand the whole procedure to make it an easy process.

  • Visit the link https://www.ncts.ie/ where you can book an appointment online.
  • To book an appointment, you can also call 1890 40 60 40
  • Keep your vehicle registration number handy (you can find the it in car logbook.)
  • After booking an appointment, you will get a message wherein you will find the location of the test center you need to visit for the test.
  • Carry your vehicle and documents along with your License or passport while going to the test center.
  • Make sure you reach the test center 10-15 minutes earlier than the allotted time.
  • Now, let the test results come out. In case of any problems with the vehicle, they will be saved on the advisory comments list.
  • Also, if there is serious issue with your vehicle that needs immediate action, you will get details about those issues.
  • For not-so-urgent vehicle problems, you will get an advisory slip later.

How to Prepare for NCT test?

After you select the location and date for your NCT test, it is time to prepare your car for the NCT test.

The mechanic will inspect vehicle components like brakes, steering, lights, and tyres. For any issues or the vehicle needs a fix, you will be informed before re-test.
Make sure you check water levels and oil before going for the test. You can check how often you need to change them by reading the car handbook. Make sure it’s not been more than six months that you checked the water levels and oil.

Why NCT test is important for your car?

As a vehicle owner, it is vital to get an NCT test for your car. You should get the vehicle tested every two years. It is made mandatory to ensure your safety during the drive.
Well, with us you do not have to worry about passing the test on the first attempt. We will help you get the certificate immediately.

Did not pass the NCT test for my car? What next?

Do not worry we will help you!

At National Driving School we help you throughout to pass the NCT test even after your car fails to pass the test.

You will get the reasons why your vehicle couldn’t pass the test. You will have 28 days in hand after that to work on the repairs and then test the vehicle again without spending a single penny.

We assist many people to book NCT quickly even after a failed attempt to pass the test. We help people book NCT tests before their current test certificates are about to expire or expired.

For some people who miss out on the expiry dates of their certificates and need last-moment assistance to book NCT, we are always there to help them.

Can I book NCT by phone?

Yes, you can book an NCT (National Car Testing) by phone in Ireland. To book an NCT, you can call the NCT booking line on 1890 40 60 40. The booking line is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, and on Saturdays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

When you call the booking line, you will need to provide some information about your vehicle, including its registration number, make and model, and engine size. You will also need to provide your contact details and choose a preferred test centre and date for your NCT.

Alternatively, you can also book your NCT online by visiting the NCT website at www.ncts.ie. Online bookings are available 24/7, and you will need to provide the same information about your vehicle as you would when booking by phone.

How long is the NCT waiting list?

The length of the NCT (National Car Testing) waiting list can vary depending on factors such as the time of year and the location of the test center. During peak periods, such as just before public holidays or during the summer months, the waiting time can be longer than at other times of the year.

In general, the waiting time for an NCT appointment can range from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the demand at your preferred test center. It’s best to book your NCT as early as possible to avoid any delays, and you can check the current waiting times at different test centers on the NCT website.

If you require an urgent appointment, you may be able to book a cancellation appointment or an appointment at a less busy test center. You can also contact the NCT customer service team for more information on available options.

Can I drive without NCT but have it booked?

In general, it is not legal to drive a car without a valid NCT (National Car Testing) certificate. The NCT is a mandatory roadworthiness test for vehicles in Ireland, and all cars over four years old must have a valid NCT certificate to be legally driven on public roads.

If your car’s NCT has expired, you cannot legally drive the car until you have passed a new NCT test and received a new certificate. However, if you have already booked your NCT test and are waiting for your appointment, you may be able to drive your car to and from the test center on the day of your appointment without a valid NCT certificate.

To do this, you will need to provide evidence of your booked appointment, such as a booking confirmation email or text message, and ensure that your car is roadworthy and in a safe condition to drive. It is also recommended that you take the most direct route to the test center and avoid driving unnecessarily.

It’s important to note that driving without a valid NCT certificate outside of the circumstances mentioned above can result in penalties, including fines and penalty points on your driving license.

What if I can’t get an NCT appointment?

If you are unable to get an NCT (National Car Testing) appointment, there are a few things you can do to try and secure a slot:

  • Check for cancellations: Keep checking the NCT website or the NCT booking line for cancellations or rescheduled appointments. Cancellations can happen at any time, so it’s worth checking regularly.
  • Consider alternative test centers: If your preferred test center has a long waiting time, try looking for an alternative test center that may have availability sooner. You can check for available slots on the NCT website or by calling the booking line.
  • Consider booking an out-of-hours appointment: Some test centers offer out-of-hours appointments, which can be more convenient for some people. These appointments may be available outside of regular working hours or on weekends, and they can be booked online or by phone.
  • Contact the NCT customer service team: If you are still unable to get an appointment, you can contact the NCT customer service team for assistance. They may be able to help you find an appointment or provide guidance on what to do next.

It’s important to note that driving a car without a valid NCT certificate is illegal, and you may face penalties if caught doing so. Therefore, it’s essential to book your appointment as early as possible to ensure that you have a valid certificate and avoid any issues.

How can I get a quick NCT booking?

Getting a quick NCT (National Car Testing) booking can be challenging, especially during peak periods when demand is high. However, there are a few things you can do to try to secure a slot:

  • Check for cancellations: Keep an eye on the NCT website or the NCT booking line for cancellations or rescheduled appointments. Cancellations can happen at any time, so it’s worth checking regularly.
  • Look for alternative test centers: Consider booking your NCT at a test center that may have availability sooner. You can check for available slots on the NCT website or by calling the booking line.
  • Book an out-of-hours appointment: Some test centers offer out-of-hours appointments, which can be more convenient for some people. These appointments may be available outside of regular working hours or on weekends, and they can be booked online or by phone.
  • Use the “Early Bird” service: The NCT Early Bird service is available at some test centers and offers appointments at an earlier time than usual. These appointments can be booked online and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Be flexible with your dates: Consider being flexible with your preferred test dates and times to increase your chances of securing a booking.

It’s important to note that while these tips may help you secure a quick NCT booking, it’s essential to ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and in a safe condition to be tested. Driving without a valid NCT certificate is illegal, and you may face penalties if caught doing so.

Why can’t I book my NCT online?

There are several reasons why you may not be able to book your NCT (National Car Testing) appointment online. Some of the common reasons include:

  • Technical issues: The online booking system may be experiencing technical difficulties, preventing you from accessing the website or booking system.
  • Eligibility criteria: You may not meet the eligibility criteria for online booking. For example, some categories of vehicles, such as buses and HGVs, may not be eligible for online booking and must be booked by phone.
  • Test center availability: The test center you want to book may not have online booking available or may be fully booked at the moment.
  • Invalid registration details: You may be entering incorrect or invalid registration details for your vehicle, preventing you from booking an appointment.

If you are having trouble booking your NCT online, you can try booking by phone instead. Alternatively, you can contact the NCT customer service team for assistance or try again later. It’s also a good idea to check the NCT website or social media channels for any updates or announcements about online booking availability.

Can I drive with an expired NCT?

No, it is not legal to drive a car with an expired NCT (National Car Testing) certificate. The NCT is a mandatory roadworthiness test for vehicles in Ireland, and all cars over four years old must have a valid NCT certificate to be legally driven on public roads.

If your car’s NCT has expired, you cannot legally drive the car until you have passed a new NCT test and received a new certificate. If you are caught driving with an expired NCT certificate, you could face penalties, including fines and penalty points on your driving license.

It’s important to ensure that your car has a valid NCT certificate before driving on public roads. You can book an NCT test online or by phone, and it’s recommended to do so well in advance to ensure that you have a valid certificate and avoid any issues.

Can I insure my car without NCT?

Yes, you can typically insure your car without a valid NCT (National Car Testing) certificate, as the NCT is a separate requirement from motor insurance. However, it’s important to note that if you are driving your car without a valid NCT, your insurance may be invalid, and you may be driving illegally.

Most insurance providers will ask for the car’s registration number and other details when you apply for insurance, and they may check whether the car has a valid NCT certificate. If you have a valid NCT certificate at the time of taking out insurance but it expires during the policy period, you will need to ensure that you pass a new NCT test and receive a new certificate before the expiry of your policy.

It’s important to ensure that your car has a valid NCT certificate before driving on public roads, as driving without one is illegal, and you could face penalties, including fines and penalty points on your driving license.

Why is there a delay in NCT booking?

There can be several reasons for delays in NCT (National Car Testing) bookings, especially during peak periods. Some of the most common reasons include:

  • High demand: During peak periods, such as the summer months, demand for NCT appointments can be high, leading to delays in securing a booking.
  • Limited availability: Some test centers may have limited availability due to staffing levels, site maintenance or upgrade work, or other operational issues, which can lead to delays in booking.
  • COVID-19 pandemic: The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has also impacted NCT operations, with reduced test center capacity and staffing levels, leading to longer waiting times for appointments.
  • Technical issues: Technical issues with the online booking system or phone lines can also lead to delays in booking NCT appointments.
  • System updates: Occasionally, the NCT may need to update its booking systems or processes, which can lead to temporary delays in booking appointments.

If you are experiencing delays in booking your NCT appointment, it’s recommended to check the NCT website or social media channels for updates or announcements about booking availability. You can also try booking at a different test center or be flexible with your preferred dates and times to increase your chances of securing a booking.

What is the penalty for no NCT?

In Ireland, the National Car Test (NCT) is a mandatory roadworthiness test that all cars over four years old must undergo. Failing to have a valid NCT certificate can result in penalties.

If you are caught driving without a valid NCT certificate, you may receive a fixed charge notice of €80 and three penalty points on your driving license. If the case goes to court, the maximum fine is €2,500 and five penalty points.

It’s important to note that driving without a valid NCT certificate is not only illegal but also unsafe, as it means that your car has not been certified as roadworthy. It is therefore recommended to ensure that your car undergoes the NCT on time to avoid any penalties and to ensure the safety of yourself and other road users.

What documents do I need for NCT?

In Ireland, when you are booking an NCT test, you will be required to bring certain documents with you to the test center. These documents are necessary to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle and that it is legally allowed to be on the road. The documents you will need to bring to your NCT test are:

  • The vehicle registration certificate (VRC) or logbook. This is also known as the “Vehicle Registration Book” and it proves that you are the registered owner of the vehicle.
  • Identification (ID). You will need to bring a valid form of identification, such as a passport or a driver’s license.
  • Insurance Certificate. You need to bring a valid insurance certificate or cover note, which shows that the vehicle is currently insured.
  • A payment method. You will need to pay the fee for the NCT test, which can be done by cash or debit/credit card.
  • Previous NCT report (if applicable). If the vehicle has previously undergone an NCT, you will need to bring the previous NCT report, which will help the tester to identify any previous issues with the vehicle.

It is important to note that if any of these documents are missing or invalid, the NCT test may not be carried out, and you may need to rebook your test. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that you have all the required documents with you when attending your NCT test.

How much does NCT cost?

TCars and Small Vans:

First-time test: €57

Retest: €28.50

Large Vans, Jeeps, and Commercial Vehicles:

First-time test: €94.14

Retest: €47.07

Taxis and Hackneys:

First-time test: €94.14

Retest: €47.07

Motorcycles:

First-time test: €28.50

Retest: €14.25

It’s important to note that if your vehicle fails the NCT and requires a retest, you must have the retest carried out within 30 days of the original test. If you don’t retest within 30 days, you will need to pay for another first-time test.

Additionally, if your vehicle is more than 90 days overdue for an NCT, an additional late fee of €22 will be applied on top of the standard test fee.

It’s always a good idea to check the latest fees on the official website of the National Car Test (NCT) before booking your test, as the fees can be subject to change.

What do I need for NCT appointment?

To prepare for your National Car Test (NCT) appointment in Ireland, you will need to make sure that you have the necessary documentation and that your vehicle is in a suitable condition. Here’s what you need to bring to your NCT appointment:

  • Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC) or logbook: This is the document that proves that you are the registered owner of the vehicle.
  • Identification: You will need to bring a valid form of identification, such as a passport or a driver’s license.
  • Insurance Certificate: You must have a valid insurance certificate or cover note for your vehicle, which shows that it is currently insured.
  • Payment: You will need to pay the NCT fee, which can be done by cash or debit/credit card.
  • Vehicle: You need to bring your vehicle to the NCT appointment, and it should be in a suitable condition for the test. This includes ensuring that the vehicle is clean, the tires are inflated, all lights and indicators are working, and the fuel tank is at least one-quarter full.

It’s important to note that if any of these items are missing or invalid, the NCT test may not be carried out, and you may need to rebook your test. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that you have all the necessary items with you when attending your NCT appointment.

Also, remember to arrive at least 10 minutes before your appointment time, as arriving late may result in the cancellation of your test.

Can I drive to NCT Centre without NCT?

Yes, you can legally drive your vehicle to the NCT Centre without a valid NCT certificate. The NCT regulations in Ireland allow for a vehicle to be driven on the road without a valid NCT certificate, but only if you are on the way to the NCT test center. However, it is important to note that if your vehicle is found to be unroadworthy, you could face penalties and could be required to get the vehicle towed away from the test center.

It is also important to ensure that your vehicle is insured, taxed, and has a valid driving license when driving to the NCT center. Additionally, you should make sure that the vehicle is in a suitable condition for the test and that all lights, indicators, and other safety features are working correctly. This will help to ensure that your NCT test runs smoothly and that your vehicle is deemed roadworthy.

Once your NCT test is complete, and you receive a valid NCT certificate, you can legally drive your vehicle on the road.

Can I pay for NCT with cash?

Yes, you can pay for your National Car Test (NCT) in Ireland with cash. When you arrive at the NCT test center, you will be asked to pay the test fee, and you can pay with cash or with a debit/credit card.

It’s important to note that if you choose to pay with cash, you should bring the exact amount of money required for the test fee, as the NCT testers may not be able to provide change. The NCT test center may have an ATM on-site, but it’s always best to bring the exact amount of money to avoid any issues.

If you choose to pay with a debit/credit card, it’s important to make sure that you have enough funds in your account to cover the cost of the test fee.

In either case, make sure to obtain a receipt for your payment, as proof of payment may be required in some cases.

Can my husband bring my car for NCT?

Yes, your husband can bring your car for the National Car Test (NCT) in Ireland, as long as he has the necessary documents and the vehicle is in a suitable condition for the test.

The person bringing the vehicle for the NCT should have the following documents with them:

  • Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC) or logbook: This is the document that proves that you are the registered owner of the vehicle.
  • Insurance Certificate: The person bringing the vehicle for the NCT should have a valid insurance certificate or cover note for the vehicle, which shows that it is currently insured.
  • Payment: The person bringing the vehicle should have the test fee payment in cash or with a debit/credit card.

Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the vehicle is in a suitable condition for the test, and all lights, indicators, and other safety features are working correctly. The person bringing the vehicle should be familiar with the vehicle’s condition and any potential issues that may arise during the test.

It’s also important to note that if the vehicle fails the NCT and requires a retest, the registered owner of the vehicle must be present for the retest. Therefore, it’s important to plan accordingly and make sure that the registered owner of the vehicle is available for the retest if needed.

NCT booking telephone number?

The National Car Testing Service (NCTS) in Ireland operates the booking service for the National Car Test (NCT). If you wish to book an NCT appointment, you can do so online through the NCTS website, or you can book your appointment by phone.

The NCTS booking telephone number for the NCT is 1890 40 60 40. When you call this number, you will be directed to an automated system, where you can book your NCT appointment by following the prompts. Make sure to have your vehicle registration number and other relevant information with you when you call.

The phone lines are open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday, and from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm on Saturdays. It’s important to note that the NCT service may be busy at certain times, so it’s a good idea to book your appointment well in advance to ensure that you can get a date and time that suits you.

How to cancel NCT booking online?

If you need to cancel your National Car Test (NCT) booking in Ireland, you can do so online through the NCTS website. Here are the steps you need to follow to cancel your NCT booking online:

  • Go to the NCTS website and select the “My NCTS” option in the top right corner of the page.
  • Log in to your account using your email address and password.
  • Once you’re logged in, you will see a list of your upcoming NCT appointments. Find the appointment that you wish to cancel and click on the “Cancel” button next to it.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm your cancellation. You will need to provide a reason for the cancellation and confirm that you wish to proceed.
  • Once you have confirmed your cancellation, you will receive a cancellation confirmation email from the NCTS.

It’s important to note that you must cancel your NCT appointment at least five working days before the scheduled appointment date. If you cancel within five working days, you may still be charged a fee.

If you have any issues cancelling your NCT booking online, you can contact the NCTS customer service team at info@ncts.ie or by phone at 1890 40 60 40 for assistance.

How to check NCT booking availability?

The availability of NCT booking appointments in Ireland varies depending on the location and time of year. During busier times of the year, such as around holiday periods or during the summer months, appointments can book up quickly, so it’s important to book well in advance to ensure you get a suitable appointment.

To check the availability of NCT appointments in your area, you can visit the NCTS website and select the “Book a Test” option. You will then be prompted to enter your vehicle registration number and other details to check for available appointments at your chosen test center.

If you’re unable to find a suitable appointment time online, you can also contact the NCTS customer service team at info@ncts.ie or by phone at 1890 40 60 40 for assistance. They may be able to advise you on alternative test centers with availability or suggest alternative dates and times.

It’s important to note that if you’re booking an NCT appointment for a specific reason, such as if your vehicle’s current certificate is about to expire, you should try to book your appointment well in advance to ensure that you have plenty of time to get your vehicle tested and obtain a new certificate if needed.

How to get NCT booking re-test?

If your vehicle fails the National Car Test (NCT) in Ireland, you will need to book a re-test in order to obtain a new certificate. Here’s how to book a re-test:

You will need to obtain a Failure Report from the test center where your vehicle was tested. The report will detail the reasons why your vehicle failed and any repairs that need to be made before the re-test.

Once you have made the necessary repairs to your vehicle, you can book a re-test appointment online through the NCTS website or by phone at 1890 40 60 40.

When booking your re-test appointment, you will need to enter the details from your Failure Report and provide the payment for the re-test fee.

You can choose a suitable date and time for your re-test appointment, based on the availability of appointments at your chosen test center.

On the day of the re-test, you will need to bring your vehicle, the Failure Report, and any documentation related to the repairs that were made to the vehicle since the initial test.

It’s important to note that you must bring the registered owner of the vehicle with you to the re-test appointment. If the vehicle fails the re-test, you may be required to make additional repairs and book another re-test. The NCTS website has information about the number of free re-tests you are entitled to, as well as the fees for additional re-tests.

What if I can’t get an NCT appointment?

If you’re having difficulty getting an appointment for the National Car Test (NCT) in Ireland, there are a few things you can try:

Check availability at other test centers: If you’re unable to find an appointment at your preferred test center, try checking availability at other test centers in your area. You can do this online through the NCTS website, or by contacting the NCTS customer service team at info@ncts.ie or by phone at 1890 40 60 40.

Check for cancellations: If you’re unable to find a suitable appointment time, keep checking the NCTS website regularly for cancellations. If someone cancels their appointment, the time slot will become available again, so it’s worth checking back regularly to see if any new slots have become available.

Use a cancellation checker tool: There are some online tools available that can help you find NCT cancellation slots. These tools will notify you when a slot becomes available, so you can book it before someone else does.

Book well in advance: If you’re not in a hurry to get your NCT, you can book your appointment well in advance to ensure that you get a suitable date and time. The NCTS allows you to book appointments up to 90 days in advance.

Contact the NCTS customer service team: If you’re still having difficulty getting an appointment, you can contact the NCTS customer service team for assistance. They may be able to advise you on alternative test centers with availability or suggest alternative dates and times.

It’s important to note that driving a vehicle without a valid NCT certificate is illegal in Ireland, so it’s important to ensure that you get your vehicle tested and obtain a valid certificate before driving on public roads.

Can you cancel NCT booking? / How do I cancel my NCT?

Yes, you can cancel an NCT booking if you are no longer able to attend the appointment. To cancel an NCT booking in Ireland, follow these steps:

  • Visit the NCTS website and select the “Cancel a Test” option.
  • Enter your booking reference number, vehicle registration number, and the email address or mobile number you used to make the booking.
  • Follow the prompts to confirm your cancellation.
  • If you have paid for the test, you will be refunded automatically.

It’s important to note that if you need to cancel an NCT booking, you should do so as soon as possible to free up the appointment slot for other customers who may be waiting for an appointment. Also, keep in mind that there may be a cancellation fee if you cancel your appointment too close to the scheduled test time, so try to cancel as early as possible to avoid any additional charges.

If you’re unable to cancel your NCT booking online, you can also contact the NCTS customer service team at info@ncts.ie or by phone at 1890 40 60 40 for assistance. They can help you cancel your appointment and provide guidance on any cancellation fees that may apply.

Can I cancel my NCT for free?

Yes, you can cancel your NCT booking for free in Ireland, as long as you cancel at least 5 working days before the scheduled test date. If you cancel within 5 working days of the scheduled test date, you may be charged a cancellation fee, which is typically 50% of the test fee.

To cancel your NCT booking for free, follow the cancellation process outlined on the NCTS website and make sure to cancel at least 5 working days in advance of your scheduled test date. You will receive a full refund of any test fee paid.

It’s important to note that cancelling your NCT booking too close to the scheduled test date can also result in a loss of your test fee, as well as a delay in getting your vehicle tested. It’s always best to cancel as soon as possible if you’re unable to attend your scheduled appointment. If you have any questions or concerns about cancelling your NCT booking, you can contact the NCTS customer service team for assistance.

How much does it cost to reschedule NCT?

In Ireland, it is free to reschedule an NCT appointment online as long as you do so at least 5 working days before the scheduled test date. However, if you reschedule your appointment within 5 working days of the scheduled test date, you may be charged a fee, which is typically 50% of the test fee.

To reschedule your NCT appointment, go to the NCTS website and follow the steps to change your booking. You will be able to choose a new test date and time that is convenient for you, subject to availability. If you reschedule your appointment more than 5 working days in advance, you will not be charged any additional fees.

It’s important to note that rescheduling your NCT appointment too close to the scheduled test date can also result in a loss of your test fee, as well as a delay in getting your vehicle tested. It’s always best to reschedule as soon as possible if you’re unable to attend your scheduled appointment. If you have any questions or concerns about rescheduling your NCT appointment, you can contact the NCTS customer service team for assistance.

How do I check NCT availability?

To check NCT availability in Ireland, you can visit the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) website and follow these steps:

  • Go to the NCTS website at  and select “Book or Manage Your Test” from the main menu.
  • Select “Check Test Availability” from the dropdown menu.
  • Enter your vehicle registration number and your preferred test center location.
  • Select your preferred date and time from the available options.
  • If there are no appointments available on your preferred date, you can search for availability on other dates or at other test centers.
  • Once you have selected your preferred appointment, follow the steps to complete your booking.

It’s important to note that availability for NCT appointments can vary depending on location and time of year. Some test centers may have longer wait times than others, so it’s a good idea to book your appointment as soon as possible to ensure you get the time and date that works best for you. If you’re unable to find a suitable appointment time or location, you can also check back regularly as cancellations may become available.

Do you have to book a retest for NCT?

If your vehicle fails the National Car Test (NCT) in Ireland, you will need to have the necessary repairs made and then book a retest to demonstrate that your vehicle is now roadworthy and in compliance with the relevant regulations.

After your vehicle fails the NCT, the NCTS inspector will provide you with a failure report detailing the specific reasons why your vehicle did not pass the test. You can then arrange to have these issues addressed by a qualified mechanic or technician.

Once the necessary repairs have been made, you can then book a retest appointment online using the NCTS website or by calling the NCTS customer service center. It’s important to note that you must wait at least three full working days after the original test before you can book a retest.

During the retest, the NCTS inspector will check to ensure that the repairs have been made and that your vehicle is now compliant with the relevant regulations. If your vehicle passes the retest, you will be issued a new NCT certificate. If your vehicle fails the retest, you may need to make additional repairs and schedule another retest.

How do I rebook my NCT?

To rebook your National Car Test (NCT) appointment in Ireland, you can follow these steps:

  • Visit the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) website at and select “Book or Manage Your Test” from the main menu.
  • Click on the “Re-Test” tab and enter your vehicle registration number and your NCT booking ID or your NCT certificate number. If you don’t have this information, you can also use your vehicle make, model, and year to search for your previous booking.
  • Click on “Search” and you will be directed to a page with your previous test details.
  • If you have already had repairs made to your vehicle, you can select a retest appointment that is at least three working days after the original test date.
  • If you need to make additional repairs to your vehicle, you can choose to cancel your original appointment and book a new appointment once the necessary repairs have been made.
  • Follow the steps to confirm your appointment and make payment for the retest fee if applicable.

Alternatively, you can also rebook your NCT appointment by calling the NCTS customer service center at 01-4135992. Be sure to have your vehicle registration number and previous test details handy when you call.

What do I need for NCT retest?

If your vehicle has failed the National Car Test (NCT) in Ireland and you need to schedule a retest, there are a few things you should bring with you to the test center to ensure a smooth process. Here’s what you will need:

  • NCT booking confirmation: Make sure to bring the confirmation email or letter that you received when you booked your retest appointment.
  • Previous NCT certificate: Bring the previous NCT certificate that you received from your first test, as this will be needed to confirm that you have already had an initial test.
  • Proof of repairs: If you had repairs done to your vehicle to address the issues that caused it to fail the first NCT, you should bring receipts or other documentation that confirms the work was completed by a qualified mechanic or technician.
  • Valid insurance disc: You must have valid car insurance in order to take the NCT, so make sure you bring your current insurance disc with you.
  • Identification: You will need to bring valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, to confirm your identity.
  • Payment: If there is a fee for the retest, you will need to bring payment in the form of cash, credit card, or debit card.
  • Your vehicle: Of course, you will need to bring your vehicle itself to the NCT test center for the retest.

It’s important to note that you should ensure your vehicle is roadworthy and has no obvious defects before taking it for the NCT retest. If you have any doubts or concerns, you may want to have a qualified mechanic or technician inspect your vehicle beforehand.

How much is an NCT retest?

The cost of a National Car Test (NCT) retest in Ireland depends on the reason for the retest. Here is a breakdown of the fees as of my knowledge cutoff of September 2021:

If the retest is required due to a failure in the emissions or braking system, there is no fee for the retest as long as it takes place within 21 days of the original test.

If the retest is required due to a failure in any other part of the vehicle, the fee for the retest is €28. If the retest takes place after 21 days of the original test, the full test fee will apply.

It’s important to note that if you need to make additional repairs to your vehicle before the retest, there may be additional costs associated with that work. Additionally, if you do not present your vehicle for the retest within 30 days of the original test, you will need to start the booking process again and pay the full test fee.

Please keep in mind that the information provided is based on my knowledge cutoff of September 2021 and fees are subject to change. You can check the current fees on the official website of the National Car Testing Service (NCTS).

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