National Household Travel Survey (NHTS) 2026 launched
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has today launched the National Household Travel Survey (NHTS) 2026, a nationwide study that will collect information on travel habits across Ireland to support future transport planning and investment.
Survey scope and delivery
The survey will run from September to early December 2026 and will involve approximately 4,000 households nationwide. It is being conducted on behalf of the NTA by independent research agency Ipsos B&A.
Household selection and participation
Households will be selected at random and contacted by telephone through a random digit dialling process using both mobile and landline numbers. Selected participants will be asked to complete a Household Questionnaire covering topics such as household composition, vehicle and bicycle ownership, access to local services and internet connectivity.
Travel diary information
Household members will also be invited to complete a two day Travel Diary, recording details of journeys made, including destination, purpose, travel time, distance travelled and mode of transport.
Data protection and confidentiality
The NTA and Ipsos B&A have confirmed that the survey will be carried out in full compliance with GDPR requirements. All information collected will remain confidential, with findings published only in aggregated and anonymised form.
Supporting transport planning and policy
Data gathered through the survey will provide essential information to support transport planning, policy development and transport modelling across Ireland. The findings will help the NTA develop future transport plans and policies, monitor changes in travel behaviour, improve regional transport models and ensure transport networks continue to meet the needs of communities nationwide.
The National Household Travel Survey supports the NTA in carrying out its statutory functions under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008 and contributes to the objectives of the Government’s Sustainable Mobility Policy Action Plan.