What is an NCT?

The NCT test assesses whether a vehicle meets the legal, safety, and environmental standards required to be considered roadworthy in Ireland.

The NCT is a legal requirement for all vehicles over three years old. Once a vehicle has passed that milestone, it must have an NCT test every year; otherwise, it will not be road legal, and you will be unable to tax or insure it. According to the government’s information on getting an NCT, you can be fined up to €1,000 for getting behind the wheel of your car if it does not have a valid NCT certificate.

You can see when your NCT is due to expire by checking your most recent NCT test certificate or your car’s service book. If you are unsure, use the free government tool.