diff --git a/test/test.py b/test/test.py
index 2b0c89f..bd343a2 100644
--- a/test/test.py
+++ b/test/test.py
@@ -1,6 +1,7 @@
 import subprocess
 import sys
 import signal
+from time import sleep
 
 from caproto_wrapper import CaprotoWrapper
 
@@ -8,9 +9,15 @@ def is_ioc_running():
     return "" != CaprotoWrapper.raw_read("ePowerSwitch_set_outlet_1")
 
 def start_iocshell():
+    attempt = 0;
     res = subprocess.Popen(["./startioc.sh"])
-    while not is_ioc_running():
+    while not is_ioc_running() and attempt < 10:
+        sleep(1)
+        attempt += 1
         pass
+    if attempt == 10:
+        print("IOCSHELL didn't start on time");
+        sys.exit(-1)
     return res
 
 def start_sim():