MOT waiting times make significant improvement

Waiting times for MOT tests have tumbled dramatically in recent months, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) revealed today.

As of 6 December, the average waiting time in Northern Ireland’s 15 test centres was around seven days. This compared to 25 days during the summer peak period in early July.

DVA Group Director, Bernie Rooney welcomed the improvement but also urged members of the public to plan ahead before the next peak period in January.

She explained: “The demand for MOT tests is seasonal and traditionally reaches its peak in January to reflect the peak in new registrations.

“In view of this customers would be advised to act promptly on receipt of the reminder letter, issued seven weeks before the due date, to be sure of securing an appointment before the expiry of the current certificate.

“It is important that motorists know they can have their cars tested up to 28 days before the expiry date of their current MOT without affecting the expiry date the following year”.

Notes to Editors:

1. Agency projections show that due to the expected increase in demand and the Christmas holiday period it is anticipated that weekly waiting times will peak at the end of December and remain higher than the current figure throughout January 2009.
2. While it is advisable, in all circumstances, that customers book an appointment well in advance of the due date, it is particularly important that they do so at this time of year because of the peak in demand.
3. A test can be booked up to three months in advance of the due date, however the law only allows for the test to be conducted one month in advance and in these circumstances a certificate covering a 13 month period will be issued.
4. For media enquiries please contact DOE Press Office on 028 9054 0014 or out of office hours contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.