The National Car Testing Service (NCTS) has confirmed that the phased reopening of the NCT service will begin from 8th June 2020.

15 centres around Ireland will reopen in compliance with the National Return to Work Safely Protocol. Roadworthiness testing will be on a limited basis and restricted only to those vehicles that had a test due date prior to 28 March 2020 (before the 4-month extension to vehicle certificates of roadworthiness came into effect). This will include vehicle owners who were unable to secure a retest date because of the suspension of the service and those affected by the vehicle lifts issue. The company says customers should take note of the Government’s travel restrictions before booking a test.

Those who fall into these categories can book an appointment for a test on the NCT website in any of the 15 centres re-opening on 8th June. The re-opening of more test centres will be announced in the coming weeks and updates will be posted on the website. NCT centres now open for testing include:

  • Cork – Little Island
  • Cork – Blarney
  • Northpoint 1 & 2, Dublin
  • Deansgrange, Dublin
  • Fonthill, Dublin
  • Galway
  • Limerick
  • Waterford
  • Letterkenny
  • Athlone
  • Ballina
  • Naas
  • Drogheda
  • Derrybeg

What to expect at the test centre

There will be detailed measures in place in each NCT test centre to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect customers and staff. You will have to make an appointment, prepay your test when booking online for pre-authorisation purposes and the transaction can be completed using the card in the test centre. No cash will be accepted in the centres.

Social distancing controls will be in place inside and outside the test centre. Physical distancing floor markers will be in place.

All staff have received mandatory training on COVID-19 safety and hygiene protocols covering social distancing requirements, personal hygiene, and the correct use of PPE equipment.

Any customers who qualified for the 4 month extension to the period of validity of their NCT roadworthiness certificate are encouraged to log onto the NCT website where they can check their new test due date.

Protocol for customers booking NCT

  • Tests must be booked and paid online
  • Ensure your vehicle is presented in a hygienic state and free of any unhygienic matter such as used tissues, gloves and wipes.
  • Only customers with confirmed appointments should present their vehicle for inspection.
  • Only one person must present the vehicle for inspection. Vulnerable drivers and those with an underlying illness should not attend. Instead organise for someone else to present their vehicle where possible.
  • A maximum number of customers will be permitted to enter the centre and this will be clearly sign posted as you enter the centre.
  • All customers must adhere to the social distancing guidelines.
  • Driver identification will still be required to be shown at check in, but it should not be handed to the staff member.
  • Once checked in, customers will be advised to wait in their vehicles or if they prefer to wait outside the building.
  • Leave windows lowered slightly to allow for air to ventilate naturally throughout the vehicle.
  • Ensure the air vents in the vehicle are closed and the fans are reduced to the lowest level.
  • Once the inspection is complete, the Vehicle Inspection Reports and NCT Certificates (if applicable) will be left on the front seat of the customer’s vehicle following the test, thus eliminating the need for customers to re-enter the test centre, unless they have a query.