Full reimbursement must be made to all who already quialified
Drivers who have to wait longer than four weeks for their National Car Test (NCT) are entitled to a free test but many drivers and NCT staff are unaware of this according to Fine Gael Mayo Deputy, John O’Mahony TD.
“Across the country there seems to be a backlog for the NCT. However, many drivers and NCT staff members are unaware of a rule that results in drivers being entitled to a free test.
“According to the NCT customer charter, the NCT aims to:
‘….ensure that an average leadtime for an appointment at an individual test centre is less than three weeks with a free test if this is greater than four weeks.”
“Although the wording is slightly ambiguous, it is clear to me, when a driver is booking a test and can’t be given one within four weeks, he is entitled to a free test. With a backlog of applications, I have been contacted by drivers who have been given an appointment six weeks away.
“However, not only are customers unaware of this important clause, but it seems some staff in test centres are not making people aware of it either. I have been contacted by drivers who booked their test, were given a six week waiting time and were not told that they are entitled to a free test.
“This may not be the staff’s fault as they just handle booking and may not be instructed to make drivers away of their rights.
“To obtain a refund, a driver must write or email the customer service department and they will issue it. I advise people who have had to wait over four weeks to contact the NCT immediately to get their refund. More importantly, the NCT needs to put proper procedure in place to ensure people know their rights.
“Many drivers who had to wait over four weeks for their test have already paid the €49 NCT. This must be reimbursed to them without delay.”