If a motorist is stopped without a valid NCT certificate and with no test date or place on the priority list the “driver may be prosecuted for not having a valid NCT certificate” and may have their vehicle seized.
It is technically illegal to drive without an NCT, and always has been, but usually the guards will be sound and let it slide if you show them proof of your booking.
If a vehicle's NCT is "cancelled", it means that the scheduled NCT appointment has been revoked. This could happen for a few reasons, such as the vehicle not being brought in for its inspection, or the owner cancelling the appointment.
The option to add your vehicle to the Priority list can be found during the booking process. You can view the current average Booking Lead Time for an NCT appointment for each NCT test centre.
Appointments may be delayed or cancelled, including if NCTS are not given accurate information and/or are unable to contact the person who has made the Appointment and/or the primary cardholder for the Appointment.
Appointments may be delayed or cancelled, including if NCTS are not given accurate information and/or are unable to contact the person who has made the Appointment and/or the primary cardholder for the Appointment.