How to prepare for the
Vehicle Suitability Test
Ensure Vehicle Roadworthiness
Verify Vehicle Suitability
Prepare Required Documentation
Equip Necessary Safety and Operational Items
Book and Prepare for the Suitability Inspection
Ensure Vehicle
Roadworthiness
01
Obtain a valid National Car Test (NCT) certificate.
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Vehicles under 10 years old require annual testing
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Vehicles 10 years or older need testing every six months
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The NCT certificate must be less than 90 days old at the time of your suitability inspection
Rent a Taxi Plate
Apply NowBook an NCT appointment by
Call 01 471 5329
Verify Vehicle
Suitability
02
Age Requirements
Confirm your vehicle meets the age criteria for taxis, which typically must be under 10 years old.
Vehicle Specifications
Ensure the vehicle has at least four doors, appropriate dimensions, and is not a 'crew cab' or 'pick-up'.
Window Tinting
All windows, except for limousines, must allow at least 70% light transmission (no more than 30% tint).
Prepare Required
Documentation
03
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Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC)
Present the original VRC during the suitability inspection.
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Proof of Ownership or Usage Rights
If the vehicle is under a hire purchase or lease agreement, provide a letter from the registered owner on official letterhead, confirming your legal right to use the vehicle for at least 12 months.
Equip Necessary Safety
and Operational Items
04
Safety Kit
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Vehicles under 10 years old require an NCT every year
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First aid kit (DIN13164 standard or Health & Safety Authority recommended)
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High-visibility vest (EN471 standard)
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Advance-warning triangle (E-marked to 27R standard), and
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Torch
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Pen and paper
THIS INCLUDES:
Passenger Information
Display the appropriate passenger information and the National Maximum Taxi Fare sticker in a highly visible position in the front passenger area.
Taximeter and Roof Sign
Install a regulation roof sign and a taximeter with a printer, ensuring the meter is calibrated and sealed.
Book and Prepare for
the Suitability Inspection
05
Schedule your appointment
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You must be the license holder to book an appointment.
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You must have a valid tax clearance certificate.
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You will need to provide your contact details and PPS number.
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You must have a valid NCT certificate issued within the past 90 days. You must also wait 48 hours after passing your NCT before booking the suitability test.
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You will need to pay the licence and inspection fees by credit or debit. Visit the NTA website
for more details about the costs.
REQUIREMENTS TO BOOK THE APPOINTMENT:
What Do You Need to Bring to Your Suitability Test
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Proof of ownership or legal entitlement to use of the vehicle for at least a year.
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Original Vehicle Registration Certificates (VRC) or a letter from the registered owner if it's leased. If it’s leased, you should ensure that the letter of confirmation is on headed paper.
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Valid NCT certificate issued within 90 days
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Valid tax clearance certificate
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Original insurance certificate in the name of the prospective license holder
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Copy of the User Manual if the vehicle is wheelchair accessible
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Copy of Assessor's Report/test data if relevant
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Schedule listing the vehicle by registration number if it’s a fleet policy.
Call the NTA to book the appointment
Call 0818 06 4000
Where is your suitability test
The suitability test takes place at one of the NTA’s established vehicle licensing centers around the country
Visit the NTA Website for the specific address for each Vehicle Inspection Centre.NTA website
Tips 
to
increase your chances to pass the test
Pre-Inspection Check
Thoroughly inspect your vehicle beforehand to address any potential issues. The NTA’s official inspection checklist is here.
Arrive Early
Give yourself plenty of time and arrive early on test day to allow sufficient time for the inspection process.
Be Professional
Maintain professionalism and courtesy throughout the examination process.
Get Familiar with the NTA’s Standards
Familiarise yourself with the NTA's standards and requirements to ensure compliance. So be sure to know the above information we’ve provided for you.
Have All Paperwork and Vehicle Standards In Order
Failure to present the required documentation at the suitability inspection will result in an immediate fail. The original insurance certificate and original logbook are required to pass, copies of these documents will not suffice.
Following these steps
Carefully will ensure you're well-prepared for the SPSV suitability test and start your taxi service in Dublin.
For more detailed information refer to the NTA website and RSA Website
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with Us
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