Whether you're driving in Ireland or the UK, your car’s safety should always be your top priority – which is why both regions have their own version of a safety inspection. In Ireland, the National Car Test (NCT) is the standard inspection program, while in the UK, the Ministry of Transport (MOT) test serves a similar purpose. However, there are key differences between the two systems that drivers should be aware of, especially if you are looking to buy an import from the UK.
What is the NCT? NCT: National Car Test (Ireland)
The NCT stands for the National Car Test and is the standard car safety inspection in Ireland.
- Frequency: In Ireland, the NCT is required for all vehicles over four years old. After the initial test, vehicles must undergo subsequent tests every two years until they are ten years old. After that, they need to take the NCT every year.
- Testing criteria: The NCT measures various aspects of vehicle safety and emissions, including brakes, lights, steering, suspension, exhaust emissions, and more.
- NCT certificate: If your vehicle passes the NCT, you'll receive an NCT certificate valid for the specified duration (2 or 1 years).
What is the MOT? MOT: Ministry of Transport Test (UK)
The MOT test stands for the Ministry of Transport test and is the standard car safety inspection in the UK.
- Frequency: In the UK, the MOT test is required for all vehicles over three years old. After the first test, vehicles need to qualify for their MOT test every year.
- Testing criteria: Similar to the NCT, the MOT test assesses things like vehicle safety and emissions standards, as well as brakes, lights, tires, exhaust emissions, vehicle structure, and more.
- MOT certificate: If your vehicle passes the MOT, you'll receive an MOT certificate valid for one year.
Key differences between the NCT and the MOT
- Frequency of testing: The most significant difference is the frequency of testing. In Ireland, vehicles under 10 years old are tested by the NCT every two years – in the UK under the MOT, it’s every year.
- What they test: In terms of testing criteria, the NCT and MOT are largely the same. There may be some small details that differ between the two, but an issue with your car is likely of being picked up on in the NCT and the MOT.
- History: The MOT test has been around for far longer than the NCT.
Whether it's the NCT in Ireland or the MOT in the UK to stay safe on the roads make sure to prioritise any required vehicle maintenance and to schedule and attend your NCT/MOT, as this will help make sure that your vehicle remains roadworthy.Wondering how to tell if your prospective new car is up to speed on its NCT or MOT? Why not use Cartell.ie to check? Cartell’s Car History Check can let you know any car’s history in Ireland and the UK simply by entering the reg number.
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