S.I. No. 405/2003 - Road Traffic (National Car Test) Regulations 2003

I, Seamus Brennan, Minister for Transport, in exercise of the powers conferred on me by sections 5 , 11 , 18 and 123 of the Road Traffic Act 1961 (No. 24 of 1961) and the National Roads and Road Traffic (Transfer of Departmental Administration and Ministerial Functions) Order 2002 ( S.I. No. 298 of 2002 ) (as adapted by the Public Enterprise (Alteration of Name of Department and Title of Minister Order 2002 ( S.I. No. 305 of 2002 )) and for the purposes of giving effect to Council Directive 96/96/EC of 20 December 1996¹ and Commission Directive 2003/27/EC of 3 April 2003² , hereby make the following regulations:

Citation and commencement

1. (1) These Regulations may be cited as the Road Traffic (National Car Test) Regulations 2003.

(2) These Regulations come into operation on 15 September 2003.

Interpretation

2. (1) In these Regulations —

“Act of 1952” means the Finance (Excise Duties (Vehicles) Act 1952 (No. 24 of 1952);

“anniversary of first registration” means a date that is one or more years after the date on which a vehicle was first registered;

“authorised person” means a person authorised by the Minister to be an authorised person under Regulation 16;

“biennial” means a date that is one or more periods of two years after a test due date;

“certificate of suitability” means a certificate issued under Regulation 15;

“design gross vehicle weight” means the design gross weight of the vehicle as specified by the manufacturer of the vehicle or, where such is not ascertainable, the design gross weight of the vehicle as specified by an automotive engineer;

“driver” means the person in charge of a vehicle when it is in a public place;

“e-mail” means electronic mail;

“first licence” means the first licence issued for a vehicle under section 1 of the Act of 1952;

“first registration” means the date on which a vehicle was first registered, irrespective of country of registration, or where only the year of first registration is known, that year, in combination with the day and month of first registration in the State and “first registered” is to be construed accordingly;

“issuing authority” means the National Car Testing Service;

“licence” means a licence issued for a vehicle under section 1 of the Act of 1952;

“licensing authority” means —

(a) the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, or

(b) the council of a county or the corporation of a county borough which for the time being exercises or performs the functions of a licensing authority under section 1 of the Act of 1952;

“National Car Testing Service” means the company incorporated in the State as National Car Testing Service Limited;

“owner” means-

(a) in relation to a vehicle (other than a vehicle referred to in paragraph (b)), the person by whom the vehicle is normally kept, and

(b) in relation to a vehicle which is the subject of a hire-purchase agreement or a lease, the person in possession of the vehicle under the agreement or lease,

and “owned” shall be construed accordingly;

“registration” means registration of a vehicle under section 131 (1) of the Finance Act 1992 (No. 9 of 1992 or the corresponding legislation in another jurisdiction and “registered” is to be construed accordingly;

“re-test” means a subsequent test carried out on a vehicle under these Regulations, subsequent to the refusal of a test certificate in respect of that vehicle where —

(a) the application for the re-test is made not more than 21 days after the day on which the test certificate was refused, and

(b) the test is carried out on a day which is not more than 30 days after the day on which a test certificate in respect of the vehicle was refused;

“section 18” means section 18 of the Road Traffic Act 1961 (No. 24 of 1961);

“small public service vehicle” means a hackney limousine, taxi or wheelchair accessible taxi (within the meaning of the Taxi Regulations);

“small public service vehicle licence” means a licence in respect of a small public service vehicle granted or renewed under the Taxi Regulations;

“Taxi Regulations” means the Road Traffic (Public Service Vehicles) Regulations 1963 to 2003 insofar as they apply to small public service vehicles and regulations made under section 34 of the Taxi Regulation Act 2003 (No. 25 of 2003);

“test” means a test of a vehicle carried out in accordance with these Regulations;

“test centre” means a premises in which the issuing authority carries out tests on vehicles in accordance with these Regulations;

“test certificate” means a certificate in the form set out in Schedule 1;

“test disc” means that part of a test certificate set out on the test certificate as the national car test (NCT) disc to be detached from the certificate and displayed in accordance with Regulation 6;

“test due date” means —

(a) in respect of a vehicle which is not a small public service vehicle, the dates specified in Regulation 3 (1), and

(b) in respect of a small public service vehicle, the dates specified in Regulation 3 (3),

for a test;

“test equipment” means the equipment used by the issuing authority to carry out tests;

“vehicle” means a mechanically propelled vehicle having at least 4 wheels, which is designed and constructed for the carriage of passengers and which has a maximum of 8 seats excluding the driver's seat and a maximum design gross vehicle weight of 3,500 kilograms.

(2) In these Regulations —

(a) a reference to a Regulation or Schedule is a reference to a Regulation of or Schedule to these Regulations, unless it is indicated that reference to some other Regulations is intended,

(b) a reference to a paragraph or subparagraph is a reference to a paragraph or subparagraph of the provision in which the reference occurs unless it is indicated that reference to some other provision is intended.

Application - general

3. (1) Section 18 and these Regulations apply to a vehicle, other than a small public service vehicle or a vehicle mentioned in paragraph (5) —

(a) from the fourth anniversary of first registration of the vehicle, or

(b) where the vehicle was first registered —

(i) before 1 January 1992, from the anniversary of first registration of the vehicle which occurred in the year 2000,

(ii) between 1 January 1992 and 31 December 1996, from the anniversary of first registration of the vehicle which occurred in the year 2001, or

(iii) between 1 January 1997 and 31 December 1998, from the anniversary of first registration of the vehicle which occurred in the year 2002.

(2) The anniversary dates mentioned in paragraph (1 and each subsequent biennial of those dates are the test due dates for a vehicle mentioned in that paragraph.

(3) Section 18 and these Regulations apply to a vehicle which is —

(a) the subject of an application for a small public service vehicle licence from the date of the application, and

(b) a small public service vehicle, from each date on which the small public vehicle licence in respect of the vehicle falls due for renewal.

(4) The dates mentioned in paragraph (3)(b) are the test due dates for a small public service vehicle.

(5) This Regulation does not apply to a vehicle -

(a) first registered 30 or more years prior to its test due date,

(b) which is used solely on an off-shore island,

(d) which is owned by the Garda Siochana or the Defence Forces.

Requirements on licensing authorities

4. (1) Subject to paragraph (2), a licensing authority shall refuse to issue a first licence, or renew a licence for a vehicle to which these Regulations apply unless the application for the licence or renewal is accompanied by a test certificate which is in force in respect of the vehicle on the day on which the licence comes into operation.

(2) A licensing authority may issue a licence in respect of a vehicle for which a test certificate is not in force as a consequence of the failure of the issuing authority to test the vehicle under these Regulations, where —

(a) the Minister has given prior consent to the issuing of the licence without the test certificate being in force, and

(b) the failure to carry out the test does not arise from the failure of the owner to present the vehicle for the test in accordance with these Regulations.

Validity of test certificate

5. (1) Subject to paragraph (2), a test certificate ceases to be in force on that test due date which occurs after the certificate to which it relates was issued.

(2) A test certificate which is issued —

(a) not more than 180 days before the first test due date, or

(b) not more than 90 days before a test due date other than the first test due date,

continues in force until the subsequent test due date.

Requirement to display test disc

6. A test disc, being the test disc relating to a certificate which is for the time being in force, issued under these Regulations in respect of a vehicle to which these Regulations apply, shall be displayed on the front windscreen of that vehicle.

Issuing authority

7. The National Car Testing Service is the issuing authority under an agreement entered into by it with the Minister under section 14 of the Road Traffic Act 2002 (No. 12 of 2002) for the purposes of issuing test certificates under these Regulations.

Application for test certificate

8. (1) An application for a test certificate in respect of a vehicle may be made to the issuing authority in person, by writing, by facsimile, by telephone or by e-mail.

(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), an application for a test certificate is deemed to have been made under these Regulations whenever the owner, or the owner's agent, accepts with or without amendment, in person, in writing, by facsimile, by telephone or by e-mail, an unsolicited offer of an appointment made by the issuing authority in writing to carry out a test on a specified vehicle.

Fees

9. (1) Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), the fee to be paid for a test certificate shall be -

(a) €40, in the case of a test certificate issued following a test of a vehicle, and

(2) A test certificate issued following re-test of a vehicle that does require the use of test equipment shall not be subject to a fee.

(3) Subject to paragraph (6), in any case where an appointment for a test or re-test has been confirmed to the issuing authority and the vehicle is not presented for the test or re-test at the appointed time and place, the issuing authority may require payment of a fee of —

(a) €58.10, for a test certificate subsequently issued following a test of the vehicle, and

(b) € 31.65, for a test certificate subsequently issued following a re-test of the vehicle.

(4) The fee for a certificate of suitability shall be €73.97.

(5) Subject to paragraph (6), in any case where an appointment for an inspection in connection with a certificate of suitability for a vehicle has been confirmed to the issuing authority and the vehicle is not presented for the inspection at the appointed time and place, the issuing authority may require payment of a fee of €105.79 in respect of a subsequently issued certificate of suitability for the vehicle.

(6) Paragraphs (3) and (5) do not apply in any case where the owner or the owner's agent gives notice at least 5 working days before the day of the appointment in person, in writing, by telephone by facsimile or by e-mail to the issuing authority of intention not to present the vehicle for a test, a re-test, or an inspection in connection with a certificate of suitability, as the case may be, at the appointed time and place.

(7) The fees prescribed in this Regulation are exclusive of value added tax.

Testing of vehicles

10. (1) Tests shall be carried out by persons employed by the issuing authority for that purpose.

(2) Subject to paragraph (4), in carrying out a test on a vehicle —

(a) the items to be tested are the items mentioned in Schedule 3, and

(b) the reasons for refusal of a test certificate shall be any one or more of the reasons mentioned in Schedule 3 in respect of the items to be tested.

(3) Subject to paragraph (4), in carrying out a re-test on a vehicle only those reasons in respect of items which gave rise to the refusal of the test certificate shall be tested.

(4) Where in the course of a test or a re-test, the issuing authority forms the opinion that a defect notwithstanding that it is not specified as a reason for refusal mentioned in Schedule 3 or, in the case of a re-test was not specified in the test report, is such that the use of the vehicle in question would be a danger to the public, that defect shall be a reason for the refusal of a test certificate.

(5) The issuing authority may refuse to carry out a test or a re-test —

(a) on a vehicle in respect of which prior application for an appointment for the test or re-test had not been made,

(b) where the prescribed fee under Regulation 9 has not been paid in respect of a test certificate or certificate of suitability,

(c) where the owner or the driver of the vehicle to be tested fails to produce the vehicle registration book, vehicle registration certificate or vehicle licensing certificate in respect of the vehicle at the time of test or re-test,

(d) where the vehicle identification number of the vehicle to be tested as shown on the vehicle registration book, vehicle registration certificate or vehicle licensing certificate whichever is produced, is not the same as that on the vehicle, or

(e) where the issuing authority considers that the vehicle to be tested is in such a condition that it would not be safe or practicable to carry out the test or re-test.

Test report

11. (1) Upon completion of a test or a re-test of a vehicle, the issuing authority shall issue a test report in respect of the test.

(2) The test report shall contain all of the information mentioned in the form set out in —

(a) Part 1 of Schedule 2, in respect of a vehicle having a compression ignition engine, and

(b) Part 2 of Schedule 2, in respect of a vehicle having a spark ignition engine.

(3) Where any reason for a refusal of a test certificate is found during a test or a re-test of a vehicle, the reason shall be set out in the test report relating to the vehicle.

Test certificate

12. (1) Subject to paragraph (2), following a test, the issuing authority shall issue a test certificate for the vehicle tested where the test report relating to the vehicle shows that all the items mentioned in Schedule 3 and tested in respect of the vehicle are satisfactory.

(2) The issuing authority shall refuse to issue a test certificate for a vehicle where-

(a) the test report relating to the vehicle contains one or more reasons for the refusal of a test certificate in respect of the items mentioned in Schedule 3, or

(b) the vehicle has not been tested or re-tested as the case may be, in accordance with these Regulations.

(3) Where the issuing authority issues a test certificate in respect of a vehicle, it shall deliver it and the test report, as soon as practicable, to the person who presented the vehicle for test.

(4) Where the issuing authority refuses to issue a test certificate in respect of a vehicle, it shall forthwith deliver the test report relating to a vehicle to the owner of the vehicle.

(5) The issuing authority may revoke a test certificate or a certificate of suitability where it has reasonable grounds for believing that such certificate was not issued in accordance with these Regulations.

Appeal

13. Where, in the case of an appeal under section 18 (8) (c (ii), a judge of the District Court directs a new test of the vehicle, the new test shall be carried out -

(a) within 30 days of such direction,

(b) by a person employed by the issuing authority other than the person by whom the test which gave rise to the refusal of a test certificate was carried out, and

Duplicate test certificate

14. (1) Subject to paragraph (2), the issuing authority may, on application from the owner of a vehicle which it has tested, issue a duplicate test certificate and test disc or a duplicate of the test report in respect of such vehicle to the owner.

(2) The application for either a duplicate test certificate and test disc or for a duplicate test report shall be made in writing to the issuing authority and shall -

(a) include such information relating to the original test certificate or original test report as the issuing authority may require, and

(b) be made only by the owner of the vehicle to which the test certificate or test report relates.

(3) A duplicate test certificate and a test disc shall be so marked on both the test certificate and test disc.

(4) The fee to be paid for a duplicate test certificate and test-disc shall be €12.60, exclusive of value added tax.

Certificate of suitability

15. (1) The issuing authority may issue a certificate of suitability in respect of a vehicle for use as a hackney, limousine, taxi or wheelchair accessible taxi, when, upon inspection, it is satisfied that the vehicle complies with the requirements in the Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment and Use of Vehicles) Regulations 1963 to 2002 and the requirements of the Taxi Regulations, in so far as they apply to such a vehicle.

(2) A certificate of suitability shall -

(a) specify whether the vehicle in respect of which it has been issued is suitable for use as a hackney, limousine, taxi or wheelchair accessible taxi, and

(b) be in the form set out in Schedule 4 and shall be on paper bearing the logo and watermark of the issuing authority.

Authorised persons

16. (1) The Minister may authorise persons to be authorised persons for the purposes of this Regulation.

(2) At any reasonable time, an authorised person may inspect premises, equipment, vehicles, records, personnel and systems and any other matters in connection with the carrying out of tests under these Regulations for the purpose of making a report to the Minister.

(3) For the purpose of preparing a report for the Minister an authorised person may copy any record held in any form whatsoever by the issuing authority.

Revocations

17. The following are revoked:

(a) the Road Traffic (National Car Test) (No. 3 Regulations 2001 ( S.I. No. 550 of 2001 ), and

(b) the Road Traffic (National Car Test (Amendment) Regulations 2002 ( S.I. No. 55 of 2002 ).

Continuance of test certificates issued under revoked Regulations

18. A test certificate and a test disc issued under the Regulations revoked under Regulation 17 and in force immediately before the commencement of these Regulations continue in force after such commencement as if issued under these Regulations.

SCHEDULE 1

Form of test certificate and test disc

Regulation 2

NCT CERTIFICATE TEASTAS NCT

It is hereby certified that the vehicle described in this Certificate was tested on in accordance with the Road Traffic (National Car Test) Regulations and was found to comply therewith.

Deimhnítear leis seo gur tástáladh an fheithicil a chuirtear síos uirthi sa Teastas seo ar an de réir na Rialachán um Thrácht ar Bhóithre (An Trialacháin Náisiúnta Ghluaisteán) agus go gcloíonn an fheithicil leis na rialacháin chéanna.

PARTICULARS / SONRAÍ

Registration Number:		Year of Manufacture:
Uimhir Chláraithe:		Bliain a Dhéanta:
Date of First Registration:
Dáta a Chéadchláraíodh:
Make:	Model:	Colour:
Déanamh:	Cineál:	Dath:
Odometer Reading:
Léamh Odaiméadair:
Vehicle Type:
Saghas Feithicle:
This Certificate will expire on:
Rachaidh an Teastas seo in éag ar:

The NCT Disc on the right is required by law to be displayed on the inside of your vehicle windscreen.

Ni mór, de réir dlí, an Diosca NCT ar dheis a thaispeáint ar an taobh istigh de ghaothscáth d'fheithicle.

This Certificate should be kept in a safe place. It must be presented as proof that you have complied with the Road Traffic (National Car Test) Regulations and when you apply for a new motor tax disc.

Ba chóir an Teastas seo a choinneáil in áit shábháilte. Ni mór é a thaispeáint agus tú ag iarraidh diosca nua mótarchánach. Fianaise is ea é gur chloígh tú leis na Rialacháin um Thrácht ar Bhóithre (An Trialachláin Náisiúnta Ghluaisteán).

This Certificate relates only to the condition of testable items at the time of test. This Certificate should not be regarded as a warranty, express or implied under common law or at all.

Nil aon léargas sa Teastas seo ach ar staid éarrat intástála ag am a dtástála. Ná tuigtear qur Barántas atá ann, bíodh sin sainráite nó intuigthe faoi bhun reachtaíochta nó an dlí

SCHEDULE 2

Regulation 11 (2)(a)

Part 1

Form of test report (compression ignition engine)

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SCHEDULE 2

Part 2

Form of test report (spark ignition engine)

Regulation 11(2)(b)

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SCHEDULE 3

Items to be tested and reasons for refusal of a test certificate

Regulations 10 and 12

Item 1: registration plates

Reasons for refusal:

(1) one or both plates missing, insecure or not clearly visible.

(2) numbers or letters missing, illegible or incorrect size.

(3) numbers, letters or background of incorrect colour.

Item 2: emissions: exhaust smoke (compression ignition engine)

Reasons for refusal:

(1) The result of the test on exhaust smoke emission is not in accordance with the standard for exhaust smoke emission as specified by the manufacturer of the vehicle, or -

(2) in the case of vehicles —

(a) first registered on or after 1 January 1980, the average smoke meter reading is higher than 2.5m^-1 in the case of naturally aspirated compression ignition engines, or the average smoke meter reading is higher than 3.0m^-1 in the case of turbo charged compression ignition engines,

(b) first registered before 1 January 1980, the exhaust emission is coloured black haze or darker,

(d) in the case of a vehicle the maximum engine speed of which is 10% or more below that specified by the manufacturer of the vehicle.

Item 3: exhaust

Reasons for refusal:

(1) the emission control system is leaking, incomplete or incorrectly assembled.

(2) idle speed is above vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.

(3) engine exhaust system is leaking.

Item 3: emissions: carbon monoxide

Reasons for refusal:

(1) The result of the test on carbon monoxide emissions is not in accordance with the standard for carbon monoxide emissions as specified by the manufacturer of the vehicle, or -

(2) in the case of vehicles first registered -

(a) before 1 October 1986, the carbon monoxide content is more than 4.5% at idling speed,

(b) between 1 October 1986 and 31 December 1993 (inclusive of both dates), the carbon monoxide content is more than 3.5% at idling speed,

(d) on or after 1 January 1994, the carbon monoxide content is more than 0.3% at either an engine speed of 2.000 rpm or at a speed specified by the vehicle manufacturer.

(e) after 1 July 2002, the carbon monoxide content of the exhaust gases is more than 0.3% by volume at idle speed, or

(f) after 1 July 2002, the carbon monoxide content of the exhaust gases is more than 0.2% by volume at either an engine speed of 2000 rpm or at a speed specified by the vehicle manufacturer.

Item 3: emissions: hydrocarbon (HC)

Reasons for refusal:

(1) the result of the test on hydrocarbon emissions is not in accordance with the standard for hydrocarbon emissions as specified by the manufacturer of the vehicle, or -

(2) in the case of vehicles first registered before 1 October 1986 the hydrocarbon content is more than 1,000ppm at idling speed.

(3) in the case of vehicles first registered between 1 October 1986 and 31 December 1993 (inclusive of both dates), the hydrocarbon content is more than 750ppm at idling speed.

(4) in the case of vehicles first registered on or after 1 January 1994 the hydrocarbon content is more than 200ppm at either 2,500 RPM or at the speed specified by the vehicle manufacturer.

Item 3: emissions: lambda

Reason for refusal:

in the case of vehicles first registered on or after 1 January 1994 the lambda value at either 2,500 rpm or at the speed specified by the manufacturer is not 1+/- 0.03 or is not within the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation.

Item 4: service brake pedal

Reasons for refusal:

(1) service brake pedal pad or rubber is missing, loose, or worn to the extent that the metal of the brake pedal can be seen.

(2) mounting is insecure, badly corroded or worn to the extent that the pedal can be moved from side to side.

(3) pedal travel is obstructed.

Item 5: service brake operation

Reasons for refusal:

(1) in hydraulic systems, the pedal tends to creep down, or is felt to be spongy when held depressed.

(2) travel in the brake pedal indicates air in the brake system or brakes in need of adjustment.

(3) in systems assisted by vacuum from engine, with pedal depressed and the engine started, no dip is felt in brake pedal.

(4) warning light for anti-lock braking system not working or indicates a defect in the anti-lock system.

Item 6: mechanical brake hand lever

Reasons for refusal:

(1) lever/lever mounting is missing, fractured, badly worn or corroded, insecure or mounting unsatisfactory.

(2) lever travel is excessive or movement is obstructed.

(3) ratchet and pawl mechanism (where fitted by manufacturer) is missing, damaged or sticking.

(4) definite and regular clicks are not heard when operating hand lever.

Item 7: seats

Reasons for refusal:

(1) is loose on runners or insecurely mounted.

(2) is collapsed or framework damaged.

(3) driver's seat so damaged that driver's support is impaired.

(4) child seat, where attached to the vehicle, is loose or incorrectly fitted.

Item 8: horn

Reasons for refusal:

(1) horn control is insecure.

(2) horn is insecurely mounted.

(3) horn is not working correctly.

(4) horn is not working or is not fitted.

Item 9: windscreen wipers and washers

Reasons for refusal:

(1) a wiper arm or blade is missing,

(2) wiper arms and blades are not cleaning windscreen effectively.

(3) wiper arms and blades are operating such that the wiped area is less than sufficient to give the driver an adequate view.

(4) wipers are not operating at normal speed.

(5) wiper control insecurely mounted.

(6) wiper control is not working, is defective or missing.

(7) wiper linkage is broken, excessively worn or insecure.

(8) windscreen washers (where fitted) are not working or not correctly aimed.

Item 10: glass

Reasons for refusal:

(1) windscreen is not fitted or is not marked as safety glass.

(2) in a vehicle registered on or after 1 January 1986, windscreen is not marked with approved Standard Mark or equivalent as set out on pages 16 and 17 of the National Car Test (NCT) Manual 1999.

(3) objects or stickers on windscreen are in the driver's direct line of vision.

(4) windscreen is damaged beyond acceptable limits by reference to page 18 of the National Car Test (NCT) Manual 1999.

(5) glass side or rear windows not marked as safety glass.

(6) windscreen or windows insecure.

(7) opening mechanism of drivers window not operating.

(8) non-glass windscreens, side or rear windows made of material that, if fractured is likely to produce fragments capable of causing severe cuts to a person.

(9) side or rear window so damaged that it obstructs the driver's view.

Item 11: rear view mirror(s)

Reasons for refusal:

(1) interior rear view mirror, or where fitted as original equipment by the manufacturer, an external rear view mirror is missing.

(2) reflecting surface of interior mirror or where fitted as original equipment by the manufacturer external rear view mirror is deteriorated or is broken so as to impair driver's view.

(3) head or mounting of any mirror is loose.

(4) interior rear view mirror, or where fitted as original equipment by the manufacturer, external rear view mirror is not adjustable.

(5) estate or hatch back vehicle not fitted with an exterior mirror on each side of the vehicle, except in the case of vehicles not fitted with these mirrors by the manufacturer.

Item 12: speedometer

Reasons for refusal:

(1) speedometer is missing or is not working.

(2) speedometer cannot be seen from the driver's seat.

(3) speedometer lighting is not working.

Item 13: safety belts

Reasons for refusal:

(1) for vehicles registered on or after the 1 June 1971, a lap and diagonal type safety belt is not provided for the driver and outer front seat.

(2) for vehicles registered on or after 1 January, 1992

(a) a lap and diagonal type belt is not provided for all outer forward facing seats.

(b) a lap and diagonal or lap type safety belt is not provided for all other forward facing seats.

(3) any belt, including any for a child seat attached to the vehicle, is badly frayed or cut.

(4) any belt, including any for a child seat attached to the vehicle is not operating properly.

(5) any load bearing member of the vehicle structure or panelling within 30 cm of a safety belt anchorage point is cracked, corroded or in an otherwise weakened condition.

(6) any belt mounting is unsatisfactory (e.g. incorrect bolts fitted).

Item 14: steering wheel play

Reasons for refusal:

(1) excessive rotational play (20° or more) is present in the steering box.

(2) excessive rotational play (5° or more) is present in the rack and pinion.

(3) steering wheel/column/shaft has excessive end float, or is insecure or broken.

(4) any bush/bearings/mounting brackets for steering wheel/column/shaft missing, is worn, damaged or insecure.

(5) shear pin in telescopic column is broken.

(6) any universal joint/clamp is damaged, worn, insecure or badly deteriorated.

(7) any retaining or locking device is missing or insecure.

Item 15: doors/locks/anti-theft devices

Reasons for refusal:

(1) a door is missing.

(2) a door cannot be opened or shut normally or is likely to open on its own.

(3) a door receiver or catch insecure.

(4) runners, tracks or an actuating mechanism on sliding door is so defective that the door does not open or close properly

(5) a sliding door missing.

(6) any safety device is not working or is defective.

(7) steering lock, where fitted as original equipment by manufacturer, has excessive wear or is subject to jamming of the lock/barrel/key mechanism.

Item 16: adaptations for disabled drivers

Reasons for refusal:

(1) any adaptation is worn, insecure, sticking, fouling or likely to fail.

(1) a servo or electrical device is defective.

(2) wiring is insecure, insulation is damaged or is likely to short circuit or fail.

Item 17: front wheel side slip

Reasons for refusal:

side slip is more than +/- 14m/km.

Item 18: rear wheel side slip

Reason for refusal:

side slip is more than +/- 18m/km.

Item 19: front axle suspension performance

Reason for refusal:

an imbalance of more than 30% performance exists between left hand and right suspension.

Item 20: rear axle suspension performance

Reason for refusal:

an imbalance of more than 30% performance exists between left hand and right suspension.

Item 21: service brake performance

Reasons for refusal:

(1) the braking effort of the vehicle is less than 55% of the test weight of the vehicle.

(2) the brake cannot be operated progressively.

(3) the brake shows abnormal lag when released.

(4) the brake effort on any wheel is less than 25 kilogrammes force (kgf).

Item 22: service brake imbalance

Reasons for refusal:

(1) more than 30% difference is present in braking effort between wheels on the same axle (i.e. the braking effort on one side should not be less than 70% of the braking effort on the other side).

(2) where a road test is carried out, obvious pull to one side is present when brakes are applied.

(3) where a road test is carried out, perceptible ovality is present in the service brake.

Item 23: parking brake performance

Reasons for refusal:

(1) in the case of a vehicle with a single line braking system and first registered before 1 July 1964, the braking effort is less than 20% of the test weight of the vehicle.

(2) in the case of a vehicle with a single line braking system and first registered on or after 1 July 1964, the braking effort is less than 27.5% of the test weight of the vehicle.

(3) in a vehicle with a dual line braking system, the braking effort is less than 16% of the test weight of the vehicle.

Item 24: parking brake imbalance

Reasons for refusal:

more than 50% difference is present in braking power between wheels on the same axle.

Item 25: towing bracket/coupling

Reasons for refusal:

(1) fastening bolts are loose or missing; securing device on the vehicle drawing pin/ball/jaw is loose or missing.

(2) a lock or blocking device is missing.

(3) cracks are present in the main part of the coupling.

(4) ball, jaw or pin is excessively worn, deformed or damaged.

Item 26: stop lamps

Reasons for refusal:

(1) any lamp is missing or not clearly visible.

(2) any lamp is not working or faulty.

(3) any lamp is not brighter than tail lights.

(4) any lamp is not red in colour.

(5) all lamps are not of same dimensions and intensity.

(6) any lamp is insecurely mounted.

(7) any lens missing or broken.

Item 27: rear lamps and registration plate lamps

Reasons for refusal:

(1) any rear lamp is missing or not clearly visible.

(2) any rear lamp is not working or faulty.

(3) any rear lamp is not red in colour.

(4) any rear lamp lens is broken or missing.

(5) rear lamps not of the same dimensions and intensity.

(6) any rear lamp is insecurely mounted.

(7) rear lamps are not fitted symmetrically.

(8) registration plate lamp is not fitted or is not working or is faulty.

(9) registration plate lamp is not white in colour.

(10) registration plate lamp lens is missing or broken.

(11) any lamp is showing white light to rear.

Item 28: indicators/tell tales

Reasons for refusal:

(1) any indicator is missing or is not clearly visible.

(2) any indicator is not working or is faulty.

(3) any indicator is not flashing constantly between 60 and 120 flashes per minute (flashing type).

(4) any indicator is insecurely mounted.

(5) a lens is broken or is missing.

(6) a lens is not amber in colour in the case of a vehicle first registered after 30 June 1964.

(7) all front indicators not are amber or white in colour in case of a vehicle first registered before 1 July 1964.

(8) all rear indicators are not amber or red in colour in case of a vehicle first registered before 1 July 1964.

(9) where only one indicator is fitted per side:

it is not amber in colour, or

in the case of a semaphore type only, it does not extend six inches beyond the outline of the vehicle.

(10) indicator switch is faulty.

(11) tell tale is missing.

(12) tell tale is not working or is faulty.

Item 29: side lamps

Reasons for refusal:

(1) a lamp is missing or is not clearly visible.

(2) lens is broken or missing.

(3) not working or faulty.

(4) lamps are not white in colour.

(5) lamps are not fitted symmetrically.

(6) lamps are not of the same dimensions and intensity.

(7) a lamp is insecurely mounted.

Item 30: headlamp condition

Reasons for refusal:

(1) dipped beams are not working simultaneously.

(2) main beams are not working simultaneously.

(3) main or dipped beams is not working.

(4) light intensity is obviously weak.

(5) glass is badly cracked or missing.

(6) reflecting material is damaged/discoloured.

(7) a headlamp is missing.

(8) a headlamp is insecurely mounted or contains water/moisture.

(9) the dip or headlamp switch is insecurely mounted or missing.

(10) the dip or headlamp switch defective.

(11) headlamps are dipping to the right.

(12) all lamps not either white or yellow.

(13) main beam warning light is not working.

Item 31: headlamp aim

Reasons for refusal:

In the case of a European type headlamp checked on dip beam -

(1) for headlamps whose centre is not more than 850mm above the ground, the horizontal cut off line does not lie between the 0.5% and 2% horizontal lines.

(2) For headlamps whose centre is more than 850mm above the ground, the horizontal cut off line does not lie between 1.25% and the 2.75% horizontal lines.

(3) The junction of the 15° cut off line and the horizontal cut off line does not lie between the 0% and the -2% vertical lines.

In the case of a British-American type headlamp checked on dipped beam —

(4) the upper edge of the hotspot does not lie between the 0% and 2.75% horizontal lines.

(5) the right-hand edge of the hotspot does not lie between the 0% and the -2% vertical lines.

In the case of a British-American type headlamp checked on main beam —

(6) for headlamps whose centre is not more than 850mm above the ground, the hotspot centre does not lie between the 0.0% and the -2% horizontal lines.

(7) For headlamps whose centre is more than 850mm above the ground, the hotspot centre does not lie between 0.0% and the 2.75% horizontal lines.

(8) The centre of the hotspot does not lie between the 0% and the -2% vertical lines.

Item 32: auxiliary lamp condition

Reasons for refusal:

(1) a fog lamp is incorrectly positioned.

(2) a fog lamp is insecurely mounted.

(3) a fog lamp switch is defective.

(4) a fog lamp is not showing white or yellow light.

(5) an auxiliary lamp is incorrectly positioned.

(6) an auxiliary lamp is insecurely mounted.

(7) an auxiliary lamp switch is defective.

(8) an auxiliary lamp is not showing white or yellow light.

(9) an auxiliary lamp is set in main beam position and does not extinguish when dipped beams are brought into operation

Item 33: auxiliary lamp aim

Reasons for refusal:

(1) the upper edge of a fog lamp beam is above the 2% horizontal line.

(2) the centre of a fog lamp beam pattern does not lie between the 0% and -2% vertical lines.

(3) the hotspot centre of an auxiliary lamp does not lie below the 0% horizontal line.

(4) the centre of the hotspot does not lie between the 0% and the -2% vertical lines.

Item 34: reflectors

Reasons for refusal:

(1) one or both rear reflectors are missing or ineffective.

(2) a rear reflector is not red in colour.

(3) a rear reflector is seriously damaged.

(4) rear reflectors are not matching in size and appearance.

(5) a rear reflector is insecurely mounted.

(6) rear reflectors are not fitted symmetrically.

(7) a side reflector is not amber in colour.

Item 35: bodywork

Reasons for refusal:

(1) a primary structural component is broken, cracked, insecure damaged or rusted to an advanced stage.

(2) a secondary structural component is missing, insecure, rusted or damaged to such an extent as to leave sharp edges.

(3) the vehicle body is not sitting squarely due to distortion.

(4) a bonnet or boot catch is defective or the bonnet safety catch is missing or defective.

(5) a bumper, bull guard or body strip is insecure.

(6) a primary structural components has been repaired in such a manner that the original strength of the components has not been maintained.

(7) the vehicle's original strength as manufactured or original safety of vehicle bodywork as manufactured, is obviously not maintained.

(8) two halves of different vehicles have been joined together and certification of the safety of the work is not available from the vehicle manufacturer, a mechanical or automotive engineer, an automotive assessor or equivalent person.

Item 36: tyre condition

Reasons for refusal:

(1) evidence is present of recutting of tread pattern where tyre is not suitable for recutting.

(2) a tyre is incorrectly seated on wheel rim.

(3) a cut in tyre is longer than 25mm or 10% of section width (whichever is the shorter) and reaches the ply or cords.

(4) the ply or cord structure is ruptured or exposed, tread is lifting a lump or bulge has been caused by separation of rubber from cords or weakness in cord structure, or tread distorted or damaged.

(5) obvious damage or distortion of a valve stem is present.

(6) a valve stem is chafing against valve hole.

(7) the sidewall of a tyre has been repaired with the use of a plug.

Item 37: tyre specification

Reasons for refusal:

(1) tyres fitted to individual axles are not of the same size, aspect ratio or type.

(2) radial ply tyres are fitted to the front wheels but not to the rear wheels.

(3) speed rating of tyres cannot be determined on inspection or is insufficient for maximum legal speed limit.

(4) a space saving tyre fitted on an axle.

Item 38: tyre tread

Reasons for refusal:

the depth of tread is less than 1.6 mm in the central three-quarters of the tread pattern.

Item 39: wheels

Reasons for refusal:

(1) cracks or defective welds are present in a wheel.

(2) a wheel is more than 19mm (3/4”) askew or buckled.

(3) a wheel is incorrectly fitted.

(4) a wheel is s damage such that tyre damage or seal damage can occur.

(5) different size wheels are fitted on the same axle.

(6) any spoke or other wheel component is in such a condition that there is a danger of failure.

(7) any stud hole is elongated or damaged.

(8) any studs or nuts are damaged or threads stripped or crossed.

(9) any stud or nut is missing or loose.

(10) any stud or nut is in such a condition that there is an obvious danger that the wheel will come loose.

(11) any wheelnut is wrongly fitted.

(12) an incorrect wheelnut is fitted.

Item 40: spare wheel

Reasons for refusal:

(1) spare wheel carrier (where fitted) is cracked or insecurely mounted

(2) spare wheel (where present) is insecurely held in its place.

Item 41: brake fluid

Reasons for refusal:

(1) the reservoir is less than half-full or is below manufacturer's “minimum” level.

(2) the reservoir cap is leaking or cap missing.

(3) the fluid is obviously dirty or contaminated.

Item 42: chassis/underbody

Reasons for refusal:

(1) a weld is breaking away.

(2) the chassis/underbody is cracked or insecure or pronounced misalignment is present.

(3) loose rivets or bolts are lose or chassis members are bent.

(4) the chassis/underbody is considerably weakened by holes.

(5) advanced corrosion or other equivalent damage is present.

(6) repairs or modifications are obviously not in line with manufacturer's recommendations.

Item 43: steering linkage

Reasons for refusal:

In the case of rack and pinion steering -

(1) a linkage is damaged or insecure.

(2) splines are worn or damaged.

(3) bushes/bearings are excessively worn.

(4) excessive end float is present in pinion.

(5) obvious stiffness in linkage.

(6) steering rack gaiter is insecure, split or missing.

(7) steering box suffers form obvious stiffness or bearings are damaged or worn.

(8) steering box is damaged or insecure or excessive end float is present in a steering box shaft.

(9) axial or radial play is present in the linkage, splines are worn or a shaft is twisted.

(10) a drop arm/drag link is damaged or insecure.

(11) a drag link or the track rod ends are obviously worn or insecure.

(12) idler assembly mounting is obviously loose, or axial or radial play is present in the assembly.

(13) track rod/steering arm is obviously deformed, loose or cracked.

(14) 3mm (1/8”) or more play is evident at wheel rim on 14” diameter wheel in respect of king pin/ bushes/ bearings, at wheel rim or another diameter wheel rim displays pro rata play.

(15) excessive lift exists between stub axle and axle beam.

(16) stub axle is damaged or bent.

(17) a retaining or locking device (split pin, nut, rivet, weld, etc.) is missing, insecure worn or broken.

(18) steering housing is damaged or worn.

(19) a mounting bolt for steering housing is missing or loose.

(20) any steering component has been repaired by welding.

(21) cracks or corrosion are present around attachment points for steering box, rack or idler box.

(22) power assistance is not available consistently over full lock to lock range.

(23) power assistance is not operating where power steering is a standard fitment by the manufacturer on all vehicles of the type of vehicle being tested.

(24) power steering fluid level is below minimum level.

(25) a power steering fluid pipe is fouling other components.

(26) leaks are present in power steering fluid pipes.

(27) power steering pump is worn, noisy, leaking or has a defective drive.

(28) continuous oil leak is present from steering box/rack/ or steering damper.

(29) steering is over or under locking or is fouling any other component on the vehicle.

Item 44: wheel bearings

Reasons for refusal:

(1) excessive play is present in bearings.

(2) bearings are too tight.

(3) bearings are worn or damaged.

Item 45: front springs

Reasons for refusal:

spring (coil/leaf), torsion bar -

(1) are worn or exhausted.

(2) any spring leaf is broken, missing or repaired by welding.

(3) fitted incorrectly.

(4) a spring clamp is missing.

(5) a U-bolt is loose or missing.

(6) a coil spring or torsion bar broken.

spring mounting or torsion bar mounting -

(7) is obviously loose.

(8) is obviously cracked or damaged.

spring eye- bolts/shackle pins -

(9) a locking device is missing or insecurely fitted.

(10) spring eye- bolts/shackle pins are worn, incorrectly positioned are of an incorrect type or are missing.

(11) a spring eye- bolt/shackle pin is obviously loose in its bush.

spring or shackle bushes -

(12) are worn, missing or perished.

(13) a spring centre bolt missing or damaged.

(14) a bump stop missing or ineffective.

air, hydrolastic, hydragas suspension -

(15) leaks are present in system.

(16) a linkage to levelling valve defective.

(17) a valve is insecure or defective.

(18) a suspension bellows is giving inadequate movement with risk of wheel fouling.

(19) a pipe is damaged to the extent that it is likely to fail.

(20) the vehicle us sitting on bump stops.

bonded suspension units -

(21) failure of rubber/metal attachment has occurred.

(22) deterioration of suspension medium has occurred.

Item 46: front suspension

Reasons for refusal:

(1) axle beam is obviously out of line.

in respect of wishbones, swinging arm, track control arm, suspension strut —

(2) a mounting obviously loose or worn.

(3) a component or mounting is cracked, damaged or deformed.

in respect of anti-roll bar, torque arm/rod, radius rod/link -

(4) a component is missing or broken.

(5) a mounting is loose.

(6) a component is cracked, damaged or deformed.

in respect of bushes, ball joints, and sliding bushes or swivel joints -

(7) excessive wear is present.

(8) a component is insecure.

(9) a suspension mounting area is deformed or corroded to such an extent that the security or alignment of the suspension component is affected.

(10) a retaining or locking device (split pin, nut, rivet, weld, etc.) is missing, insecure worn or broken

Item 47: brake lines/hoses

Reasons for refusal:

(1) are perished, kinked, damaged or rusted to the extent that the pipe is pitted.

(2) are unsatisfactorily mounted with the possibility of failing.

(3) leaks are present.

(4) a line or hose is fouling moving parts.

(5) a line or hose is bulging under pressure.

(6) inadequate repairs have been carried out to lines or hoses or unsuitable fittings are present.

Item 48: shock absorber condition

Reasons for refusal:

(1) obvious leak are evident in a shock absorber.

(2) a mounting bracket or bush is missing, loose or damaged.

(3) a shock absorber is missing or damaged.

Item 49: electrical system

Reasons for refusal:

(1) ignition switch is missing.

(2) ignition cannot be switched off.

(3) ignition key cannot be removed.

(4) wiring is liable to interfere with the driver's control of the vehicle.

(5) risk of fire is present, including risk associated with:-

- dislocated or insecure electrical wiring,

- electrical wiring insulation damaged,

- after-market items with the exceptions of taxi roof-signs, anti-theft systems and light failure indicators not being wired through ignition switch.

- use of unsuitable wiring, e.g. household wiring/bell wiring.

(6) battery mounting is unsatisfactory.

(7) risk of short-circuiting is present with battery.

(8) leakages from battery are evident

Item 50: fuel system

Reasons for refusal:

fuel tank, fuel filter systems and fuel lines -

(1) a component is incorrectly or loosely mounted or damaged.

(2) advanced rust is present in fuel tank.

(3) Leaks in system are evident.

(4) unsuitable fuel tan has been fitted.

(5) LPG/CNG tank has been fitted inside vehicle without being in a sub-compartment or without having valves piped to the outside.

(6) LPG/CNG venting or ducting pipes are damaged or blocked.

(7) sub-compartment is obviously not gas-tight where valves are not piped to the outside.

(8) fuel tank is fitted to roof of vehicle.

(9) a manual or solenoid valve is not operating.

(10) possibility exists of fuel lines being crushed, chafed, ruptured or subject to excessive vibration.

(11) fuel cap or fuel cap seal is missing.

throttle control —

(12) is sticking, binding or excessively worn.

(13) a link pin, retaining device or safety device is missing.

(14) mounting bracket or panel is cracked or fractured.

(15) excess fuel device gives off excessive smoke if operated from within the passenger compartment after the engine has been started.

(16) engine stop control (on diesel vehicles) is not working or is missing.

(17) air filter assembly is insecure, missing or incomplete.

Item 51: brake wheel units

Reasons for refusal:

(1) a hydraulic brake unit is insecurely mounted.

(2) a hydraulic brake unit is leaking.

(3) a hydraulic brake unit is sluggish in operation or is seized.

Item 52: mechanical brake components

Reasons for refusal:

(1) a brake rod/lever/cable/linkage/pivot is missing, damaged cracked, seized, obstructed or worn.

(2) a brake rod/lever/cable/linkage/pivot is incorrectly fitted.

(3) a bracket, mounting bolt, split pin or other retaining device is missing, loose or worn.

(4) brake linings are contaminated.

(5) brake linings are incorrectly adjusted.

(6) brake shoes or pads are in need of replacement.

(7) a brake drum/disc/backplate is obviously damaged, askew, or insecure.

in relation to actuating levers —

(8) a lever is damaged, insecure or is in need of adjustment.

(9) a lever is operating over centre.

(10) danger is present of brakes locking.

(11) free movement of brake rod/levers/cables etc. is restricted.

Item 53: master cylinder/servo/valves/connections

Reasons for refusal:

(1) master cylinder/reservoirs are insecurely mounted or mounting panel is cracked.

(2) master cylinder/reservoirs is leaking or defective.

(3) servo is insecure or defective.

(4) servo is damaged, badly corroded or leaking.

(5) a valve is insecurely mounted, leaking or defective.

(6) the load sensing or brake proportioning valves are missing damaged, leaking, inoperative, obviously incorrectly adjusted or a linkage is sticking.

Item 54: exhaust system/noise

Reasons for refusal:

(1) exhaust pipe is badly mounted or is liable to fall off.

silencer —

(2) is missing or is not functioning or excessive noise is being emitted.

(3) is badly mounted or likely to fall off.

(4) has serious leaks.

(5) a risk of fire is present because of leaks or broken components in exhaust assembly.

Item 55: rear suspension

Reasons for refusal:

axle beam, trailing arm, wishbones, swinging arm, track control arm suspension strut-

(1) a component is obviously askew.

(2) a mounting bush, bearing or bearing carrier, shaft, ball joint is obviously loose, worn or insecure.

(3) a component is cracked or damaged.

anti-roll bar, transverse rod, radius rod/link -

(4) a mounting is loose.

(5) a component is cracked or deformed.

(6) a component is missing or broken.

bushes, ball-joints, sliding bushes or swivel joints -

(7) a component is showing excessive wear.

(8) a component is insecure.

(9) a mounting area is damaged or corroded to such an extent that the security or alignment of the suspension component is affected.

Item 56: rear springs

Reasons for refusal:

spring(coil/leaf), torsion bar -

(1) is worn or exhausted.

(2) a spring leaf is broken, missing or repaired by welding.

(3) a component is fitted incorrectly.

(4) a spring clamp is missing.

(5) a U-bolt is loose or missing.

(6) a coil spring or torsion bar is broken.

(7) a spring mounting or torsion bar mounting is obviously loose.

(8) a spring mounting or torsion bar mounting is obviously damaged.

spring eye- bolts/shackle pins -

(9) a locking device is missing or insecurely fitted.

(10) a component is worn, incorrectly positioned, missing or is of an incorrect type.

(11) a bolt/shackle pin is obviously loose in its bush.

(12) a spring, shackle bush or slipper pad is worn, missing or perished.

(13) a spring centre bolt missing or damaged.

(14) a bump stop is missing, damaged or ineffective.

air, hydrolastic, hydragas suspension —

(15) a leak is present in a components.

(16) a linkage to levelling valve is defective.

(17) a valve is insecure or defective.

(18) a suspension bellows is giving inadequate movement with risk of wheel fouling.

(19) a pipe is damaged to the extent that it is likely to fail.

(20) the vehicle sitting on bump stops.

bonded suspension units -

(21) failure of rubber/metal attachment has occurred.

(22) deterioration of suspension medium has occurred.

Item 57: transmission

Reasons for refusal:

(1) clutch pedal pad or rubber is missing, loose, or worn to the extent that the metal of the brake pedal can be seen.

(2) a driveline component is liable to lock up or break away.

(3) a propeller shaft or half shaft bearing/bearing housing/ housing mounting is askew, damaged or worn.

propeller shaft/half shaft couplings -

(4) a component is worn.

(5) a bolt, nut or stud is lose or missing.

(6) a lock tab is missing.

(7) a coupling is obviously worn or its grease boots are missing or torn.

(8) lubrication oil continually dropping.

(9) an engine or gearbox mounting is insecure, deteriorated or broken.

SCHEDULE 4

NCTS logo

Certificate of Suitability

Regulation 15

Part 1

Public service vehicle Licence No._______________________

Test certificate (NCT certificate) number_________________

It is hereby certified that the vehicle described in Part 2 of this certificate, and for which a test certificate has been issued was inspected on ________________ (insert date) in accordance with Regulation 15 of the Road Traffic (National Car Test) Regulations 2003 (S.I. No. of 2003) and that as a result the issuing authority is satisfied that the vehicle conforms with the requirements particular to the use of a vehicle as a:

HACKNEY/ LIMOUSINE/ TAXI/ WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE TAXI (delete as necessary)

that are set out in the Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment and Use of Vehicles Regulations 1963 to 2002 and the Road Traffic (Public Service Vehicles Regulations 1963 to 2003 and regulations made under section 34 of the Taxi Regulation Act 2003 , and is suitable for such use.

Signed ___________________________

(Authorised signature)

Date of issue of this certificate: ______________________

Part 2; Particulars of vehicle

Registration Number:______________________

Chassis Number: ________________________

Make ________________________________

Model _______________________________

Colour ________________________________

Maximum no. of passengers ______________________

	GIVEN under my Official Seal,
	8^th September 2003
	Séamus Brennan
	Minister for Transport

EXPLANATORY NOTE

(This Note is not part of the Instrument and does not purport to be a legal interpretation)

These Regulations consolidate the statutory provisions concerned with the National Car Test, the suitability testing and periodic roadworthiness testing of small public service vehicles in one Statutory Instrument.

They also specify that any reason for failure of a test constitute reason for refusal of a test certificate.

¹ OJ No. L46, 17.02.97, p.11

² OJ No. L90, 08.04.03, p.41