Motorists in the South East may be able to avail of a free NCT test if their booking meets specific criteria.
Wait times in the South East stretch beyond five months in certain counties as motorists struggle to have their car tested before their vehicle's expiry date.
Significant absenteeism driven by Covid-19 is largely to blame for the long wait times as test centres struggle to cope with reduced staffing and increased customer demand.
The next available dates in South East NCT centres are as follows:
- Waterford: Feb 27
- Wexford: March 9
- Carlow: March 9
- Tipperary: March 24
However, the longest wait time by a considerable margin is in Kilkenny with the next available test date being April 3rd - that's an astonishing 165 days from the time of writing.
Speaking to the Oireachtas Transport Committee earlier in October, NCTS CEO Sam Wilde noted that the company is moving to address the backlog with the addition of 66 new recruits from Spain and the Philippines.
Mr Wilde has also asked insurance companies and gardaí to show "understanding" if a person's test has expired and can show proof of a booking.
While the cost of an NCT test stands at €55, some motorists may be able to avail of a free test if an appointment cannot be offered within a 28-day period.
According to the NCTS Customer Charter, a free test will be provided unless the below points apply to both you and your vehicle:
- The test is overdue by more than 7 days at the time of contacting the NCTS
- An appointment was offered 7 days or more prior to the test due date
- You have made specific requests regarding suitable days, times or dates
- You have declined or rearranged two or more appointments
- You have failed to attend an appointment
- You have previously accepted or requested an appointment outside of the 28-day period
Whatsmore, customers who are waiting months for their NCT, could potentially avail of a newly announced priority waiting list on the NCTS website.
