Some MOT testing is to resume in Northern Ireland as the crisis-hit system tries to recover from the effects of lockdown, industrial disputes and widespread technical failure of vehicle ramps.
READ: 12 MONTH MOT EXTENSION ANNOUNCED AS NORTHERN IRELAND MOT CHAOS CONTINUES
However, it will be sometime before the general public will be able to get their own vehicles certified as being safe. Initially, the test will be available only to taxis and busses due a first time test, vehicles not registered in Northern Ireland and vehicles where the MOT expired over a year ago (meaning the vehicle hasn’t been tested for at least two years). Balmoral and Newtownards test centres will not reopen as they are in use as virus testing facilities.
READ: LATEST: NORTHERN IRELAND MOT TEST CRISIS
Testing for all other categories remains suspended and motorists should get a Temporary Exemption Certificate, although DVA phone lines and counter service remain closed.
READ: MOT STRIKE ACTION LIKELY IN NORTHERN IRELAND
Prior to coronavirus, NI’s state-run test centres were already creaking, with reports of motorists booking four months or more in advance, only to have them cancelled at the last minute. 
Go to comments