Take the uncertainty out of the National Car Test by having your car pre-tested for free!

The NCT was introduced on 4th January 2000. Ireland was one of the last countries to comply with the EU Directive, which makes car testing compulsory in EU member states and is aimed primarily at improving road safety and enhancing environmental protection.

What cars must be tested and how often?

Testing was introduced on a phased basis as follows: 

• Year 2000: Cars first registered before 1 January 1992
• Year 2001: Cars first registered between 1992-1996
• Year 2002 onwards: All four year old cars and eligible older cars i.e pre 92 registered cars tested in the year 2000 will be eligible for testing again in year 2002 because testing is every two years.

Test Certificates will be valid for up to 2 years (from the date the test is due to the registration anniversary date two years later).

Commercial vehicles will continue to be D.o.E. tested.