NCT · 24 September 2026
Passing the NCT With a Japanese Import: The Checklist
Japanese cars are usually in excellent mechanical condition, but a few Japan-market details trip up imports at the NCT. Almost all of them are cheap and easy to fix in advance.
The usual suspects
- Tyres without an E-mark. Japanese-market tyres often lack the European "E" approval mark. Budget for a set of E-marked tyres if needed.
- Rear fog light. Many Japanese cars have none, or only a centre one. Irish rules require a rear fog lamp.
- Headlight beam pattern. Japanese cars drive on the left like Ireland, so the beam pattern usually matches. Aim is still checked, so have them adjusted.
- Speedometer. Speedometers read in km/h, which is correct for Ireland.
- Windscreen stickers and tints. Remove Japanese inspection stickers; very dark front window tint can fail.
- Emissions and brakes: checked as for any car.
How the process works
- The car arrives and clears customs.
- A VRT inspection at an NCTS centre confirms identity and specification, and VRT is paid.
- The car receives an Irish registration.
- The NCT itself is due based on the car's age from first registration. For imports older than four years, the first test is due once it is registered here.
Costs
A full NCT costs €60, and a paid re-test €40 (from January 2025). With our Complete Irish Registration service we handle the VRT appointment, registration and NCT preparation for you.
Frequently asked questions
Do Japanese tyres pass the NCT?
Only if they carry a European E-mark. Many Japan-market tyres do not, so they must be replaced.
Does a Japanese import need a rear fog light for the NCT?
Yes. If the car has none, one must be fitted before the test.
How much is the NCT?
€60 for a full test and €40 for a paid re-test.