The simple NCT trick that could save you from driving with an expired disc

The National Car Testing (NCT) Service has advised motorists that on the NCT website you can check when your vehicle is due to be tested and sign up for free reminders to book their vehicle for its NCT test before their current disc expires. 

Motorists can avail of this service on the NCT website where users can enter their number plate to see when their vehicle is due for the NCT. 

If due soon, car owners will be asked if they would like to book their NCT appointment. 

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Otherwise, users can avail of a free reminder service where the NCT website will provide motorists with an “electronic reminder when their test is due.” 

Car owners wishing to do so will be prompted to enter either their email address or phone number to request the advance reminder. 

This comes amid the NCT reminding motorists of their new higher fees with an initial test costing drivers €60, a re-test now €40 instead of €28.   

Drivers who cancel their appointment with less than five working days' notice or fail to show up will incur a fee of €24 for a full test or €16 for a re-test.     

It is an offence to drive a vehicle on public roads without a current NCT certificate. 

Vehicles are subject to the NCT test from the fourth anniversary of their first registration.  

Drivers without a valid NCT disc will be fined an initial fixed charge amount is €60, increasing to €90 if you do not pay within 28 days, and they will also receive three penalty points on their license.  

If still unpaid after 28 days, five penalty points and a more significant fine and/or imprisonment can be imposed if it goes to court because of non-payment. 

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