I propose to take Questions Nos. 202 and 205 together.
In accordance with Directive 96/96/EC, a passenger car is required to undergo the national car test when it is 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. Factors such as non-use of a vehicle or failure to have a vehicle tested at the appropriate time would not be compatible with the criteria set out in the directive for determining test due dates. Therefore, in accordance with the test schedule, where a car is tested other than at the specified time, the test certificate is valid from the date of the actual test until the next date on which the test is due.
The car testing contract requires testing to be carried out to specified customer service performance standards. Regarding test arrangements, National Car Testing Service Limited is required to ensure that the maximum lead-time for an appointment for a NCT does not exceed four weeks. In the event of the company being unable to give an appointment within this period, it is obliged to conduct the NCT free of change.
Under road traffic law, the responsibility to ensure that a liable vehicle has a valid test certificate rests with the owner.
