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NCT retest: rules and cost

If your car fails, fix the faults and book the retest within 21 days; it must be done within 30 days of the first test. It costs €40, or nothing if only visual items failed. In 2025, 90.3% of retests were passes.

Updated 2 October 2026 · checked against official NCTS and RSA sources

How to book the retestFail reasons

Retest timeline

  1. Day 0: initial test; you get a fail report listing the defects.
  2. By day 21: book the retest.
  3. By day 30: complete the retest. After that, a full test at €60 is needed.

For a visual retest, check the centre's times first: lanes can pause around lunchtime, on Friday evenings and at shift changes.

Disagree with the result? Complaints and appeals

  1. At the centre: speak to the person in charge before you leave. For an appeal to be considered, the car must be shown again in the same condition.
  2. Complaint form (QP 009/1), from the centre or customer service on 01 413 5994, posted to NCTS Customer Service, Lakedrive 3026, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24. Reply within 2 weeks.
  3. Formal appeal in writing to the Independent Appeals Board, NCT Appeals, AA Technical Department, Unit D, Merrywell Business Park, Ballymount Road Lower, D12 F1H2 (01 617 9000, [email protected]), or to the District Court.

Appeals must be made within 6 months of the test. Source: NCTS FAQ and customer charter.

Frequently asked questions

Can they fail me on something new at the retest?

The retest checks the items that failed, but the NCT manual allows other defects that are evident at the re-inspection to be recorded too. Have the car checked before going back, not only the failed item.

How do I complain or appeal an NCT result?

Speak to the person in charge at the centre before leaving. If that does not resolve it, complete a complaint form (from the centre or customer service, 01 413 5994); the NCTS replies within 2 weeks. You can then lodge a formal appeal in writing to the AA Independent Appeals Board (01 617 9000), or to the District Court, within 6 months of the test.

How long do I have to get an NCT retest?

Book the retest within 21 days and complete it within 30 days of the initial test. After 30 days you need a full test again.

Do I have to go back to the same centre?

Retests are booked through ncts.ie like any test; choose the centre that suits you when you book.

Can I drive my car after failing the NCT?

If the fail includes a dangerous defect, you must not drive the car until it is repaired. Otherwise get the faults fixed and retest within the deadlines.

Related guides

NCT cost

All fees.

Checklist

Before the retest.

Pass rates by centre

Retest rates too.

Sources: NCTS FAQ. NCT Centres is independent and not affiliated with the NCTS or the RSA. Fees and rules can change: confirm on ncts.ie before you book.