The operator of the NCT says it's recruited more than 50 additional inspectors from the Philippines.
They're due to start training next month, as part of efforts to clear the current backlog.
The next available date offered at some test centres isn't until December.
Sinn Féin's Transport Spokesperson, Martin Kenny says extending the test time for younger cars might alleviate pressure.
He's also accused the NCT operators for failing to plan ahead:
"While I accept some of the backlog can be attributed to delays in testing due to pandemic restrictions, there was also a failure by the Department of Transport in terms of their workforce planning."
"They would have been aware that there was going to be an increase in learner drivers becoming eligible to take their full licence test in early 2022, but failed to plan for an increase in their workforce."
