Michael Ring
Question:321 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Transport if he will address the anomaly of the NCT only being valid for two years, according to the date of manufacture, rather than the date of the test. [18875/02]
Written Answers. - National Car Test.
In accordance with EU Directive 96/96/EC, passen ger cars are required to undergo a roadworthiness test when they are four years old and every two years thereafter. The age of the vehicle and consequently the first test due date are determined by reference to the date of initial registration with subsequent test due dates falling every two years after the first test due date. Neither the date of manufacturer nor the date of ownership of the vehicle are criteria in determining the test due dates. Where an NCT inspection does not occur on the test due date, the NCT certificate is valid from the date of the test to the next test due date. This is to ensure that the car is again liable for a test in accordance with the test schedule laid down in the directive.