Lengthy wait times at Waterford NCT centre revealed, despite recruitment drive

Motorists in Waterford are facing a wait of just under 200 days to get and NCT (National Car Test) appointment, with the earliest date available on November 27. 

Earlier this year the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) had promised to clear the current backlog and return to normal waiting times by June, with vehicles to be inspected within 12 days of a booking.

However, despite a major recruitment drive, details revealed in The Irish Independent over the weekend found several test centres offering January 2024 as the earliest available date.

Other centres showed dates in December, while many more offered appointments in November.

Motorists can apply to be on a priority waiting list, and generally get a test quicker than the wait times outlined.

Those not offered a test for their car within 28 days are also entitled to a free test. 

A spokesperson for NCT firm Applus said the NCTS Customer Charter is available on the NCTS website and is also sent to customers when they are notified that their NCT is due.

"The Customer Charter clearly outlines the standards we aim to achieve in the delivery of the NCTS service," the spokesperson said. 

"You will be provided with a free test, where an appointment cannot be offered within a 28 day period," the spokesperson said unless any of the following apply:

•             If the test is overdue by more than 7 days at the time of contacting us

•             If an appointment was offered 7 days or more prior to the test due date

•             If the vehicle owner has made specific requests regarding suitable days, times, or dates

•             If the vehicle owner has declined or rearranged two or more appointments

•             If the vehicle owner has failed to attend an appointment then a free test is not entitled; or

•             If the vehicle owner has previously accepted or requested an appointment outside of the 28-day period

"The vast majority of customers continue to receive an appointment within 4 weeks of application. Each booking request is evaluated, and should they qualify for a free test, it is allocated," the spokesperson added.