Explainer: Why the big backlog for NCT tests and what is Government doing?

The next available NCT test date in Little Island, Cork, is January 23, 2024. Picture: Dan Linehan

Thousands of motorists have expressed frustration over not being able to book an NCT, meaning, technically, they are breaking the law by having an out-of-date disc.

It is an offence to drive a car in Ireland without displaying an NCT disc if the car is liable for testing — fines and penalty points can be issued to motorists who do.