Prepare your car for the NCT

Work through the car a few days ahead

Give yourself time to investigate defects and arrange repairs. The checks below help you organise the visit; they are not a complete test manual or a promise of a pass. Use a qualified repairer where work requires skills or equipment you do not have.

Check what you can see and operate

The official pre-NCT checklist covers lights, registration plates, tyres, seat belts, wipers, washers and the horn. Look for damage and check that the controls work. A light illuminating is not proof that its aim meets the test standard.

• Look at the tyre condition and pressure; have questionable wear or damage assessed.
• Check that plates are readable and secure and that their lamps work.
• Check the wipers clear the screen and the washers operate.
• Check that seat belts and their buckles are accessible and function.

Prepare access for the inspection

Clear loose belongings, the boot and the seats. Leave the glove compartment unlocked and clear where access is needed for the diagnostic connection. Remove devices plugged into the OBD port in advance of the test.

• Remove wheel hubcaps if they hide the wheel nuts.
• Remove valuables and switch off dashcams or other recording devices.
• Remove removable child seats if possible; NCTS says a seat left fitted will be checked for correct fitting.

Mechanical condition and arrival

Check fluid levels safely in accordance with the vehicle handbook. NCTS asks for adequate oil and water, a fit engine and normal operating temperature on arrival. If you are concerned about the timing belt, overheating, brakes or another mechanical defect, have it assessed before the test instead of attempting to drive through the problem.

Bring the car you actually booked

Match the registration on your confirmation to the vehicle. Presenting a different car is not simply a transfer of the prepaid appointment. Read the payment guide and contact NCTS if the vehicle changes.

Use the checklist on screen or on paper

Tick the items below as a reminder, or use your browser’s Print command. Checkboxes work without JavaScript; their state is not saved by this site and may reset when you leave. Printing this guide does not book an appointment or certify the car.