DfI Extends temporary exemption certificates for MOTs

Extension to manage increased demand until new testing facilities open

DfI Extends temporary exemption certificates for MOTs

The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has extended the use of Temporary Exemption Certificates (TECs) for five and seven-year-old private cars in Northern Ireland for a further year, until 2026.

This extension aims to manage increased demand for MOTs and reduce waiting times. The TECs allow eligible motorists to drive their vehicles legally, provided they are roadworthy, taxed, and insured.

The introduction of TECs in April 2024, approved by former DfI Minister John O’Dowd, helped reduce MOT waiting times from over 100 days in May 2024 to approximately 30 days in February 2025.

Vehicle licensing data indicates that around 107,000 cars may be eligible for a TEC under the extension. The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) will automatically process these certificates.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins stated that the extension will allow the DVA to manage demand until new testing facilities at Hydebank and Mallusk open. These centres will increase testing capacity by over 200,000 vehicles annually.

The DVA has maximised capacity at its 15 existing test centres through recruitment and overtime. From April 1st, 2024, to January 31st, 2025, the DVA conducted 956,759 vehicle tests, compared to 942,789 in the same period of the previous year. In 2024, MOT appointments were offered on all but six days.

Minister Kimmins emphasised that road users have a responsibility to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, regardless of TECs.

Source: Northern Ireland World

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