LSTC – Donegal’s trusted CVRT test centre for 40 years 

05/08/2026

Currently undergoing extensive upgrades to create a state-of-the-art facility while continuing to deliver the highest standards in vehicle testing, Lough Swilly Test Centre (LSTC) in Letterkenny is an RSA-appointed CVRT testing centre for both light and heavy commercial vehicles. 

Established in 1985 as Lough Swilly Bus Company (it was renamed LSTC in 2005), the family-run business is owned by Colm Doherty who is supported by his sons Colm Jnr and David. From its early days in Letterkenny town centre to its current purpose-built facility in Bonagee, the business is open six days a week and has continued to grow, testing circa 500 vehicles per month. This year, LSTC is celebrating an outstanding 40 years in the testing business. To mark the significant milestone, LSTC has refreshed its logo. This milestone comes as the centre moves to reaffirm its ongoing operations. 

The centre is in the process of renewing its licence until 2034. Its two-bay facility allows for efficient testing of both LGVs and HGVs, including vans, trucks, trailers, buses, coaches, minibuses, ambulances, campervans and motorhomes.  The centre also offers brake tests, tachograph calibrations, road speed limiter checks, pre-tests, speed limiter and voluntary testing. 

LSTC is currently undergoing an extensive revamp, representing a major investment in upgrading its facilities and equipment. By installing the latest testing technology and modernising the premises, the team is creating a state-of-the-art facility that reflects the high standards they are known for and their commitment to road safety across Donegal. They are not simply just investing in their facilities, but in the future of road safety in Donegal. 

"We're putting in a new light testing lane which should be fully operational in March. We're also adding a new waiting area for customers. As a business which prides itself on customer service, we feel this is very important," David Doherty explains. 

The centre is managed by David and Colm Jnr who are supported by four approved testers — Shane Gibson, Hugh McNulty, Graham Donaghy and Rey Santiago — along with office staff Joanne Houston and Rosemary Stewart. Together, the experienced team prides itself on professionalism, reliability and exceptional customer care, welcoming clients from across Donegal and beyond, including a number of major fleet operators. Regular customers include the fleets of Donegal County Council, Foyle Coaches, G&E Doherty Motors, HML Plant Hire, Thomas Keys & Sons and Drivalia. 

“We’re proud of our strong team, our continued investment and our commitment to delivering the highest standards of testing for our customers,” David adds. 

“We place a strong emphasis on customer care. We will always try to accommodate our clients at a time that suits them. They can relax with a cup of tea or coffee in the waiting area while the test is being completed. It’s a nice, friendly atmosphere and we have ample parking space. One of our big selling points is our location on the way into Letterkenny. It’s easy to access from all parts of Donegal and beyond. 

“Our exceptional service is key to us keeping our existing customers and attracting new ones. They choose us ahead of other test centres because of the service we provide and the high standards we set. Our customers know that they will always be looked after when they test with us. 

“LSTC is your trusted CVRT testing centre.” 

The CVRT inspection, which is carried out on behalf of the RSA (Road Safety Authority), includes checking brakes, lights, markings, wheels and tyres, steering and suspension, chassis and underbody, tachograph, speed limiter, exhaust emissions, electrical systems, glass, mirrors and more. LSTC has invested heavily in the latest equipment for testing all LCV and HGV commercial vehicles. The purpose of the test is to ensure that these vehicles are in good roadworthy condition throughout their entire life. 

The test centre is open from 7.30am to 6pm Monday-Thursday, 7.30am to 4.30pm on Fridays and 7.30am to 2.30pm on Saturdays. Bookings can be made over the phone or online (www.loughswillytestcentre.town.ie/booking) or by email [email protected]  

The LSTC team would like to take this opportunity to thank their customers for their continued support, and look forward to catering for all their vehicle test needs for many more years to come. 

Lough Swilly Test Centre 

Bonagee, 

Letterkenny, 

Co Donegal, 

F92 D796. 

Phone: 074 91 22873 

Email: [email protected] 

Web: www.loughswillytestcentre.town.ie 

First published in Irish Trucker magazine July/August 2026, Vol 29-4