Driving in Ireland

Driving in Ireland

How to Apply for Driving Licence As a visitor to Ireland, you can drive on a driving licence from any state outside the EU/EEA for up to one year provided the driving licence is current and valid. However, on taking up 'normal residence' in Ireland you must either exchange your driving licence or apply for a driving licence in Ireland. You are normally resident in Ireland if, because of personal and occupational ties, you usually live here for at least 185 days in each calendar year. Ireland has agreements with certain countries/states that designates them as recognised states for the purposes of driving licence exchange. We are engaging with several countries/states to increase this list. You can view a list of recognised states HERE . On taking up residence you should apply for an Irish driving licence but if you cannot exchange your foreign licence, you will need to go through the ‘learning to drive’ process. Please note that, once you obtain an Irish learner permit, this will take precedence over your full foreign driving licence and all rules and regulations pertaining to the holder of a learner permit applies (e.g., display of “L” plates, must be accompanied etc.) 1. You must first pass a driver theory test . You can book your theory test HERE . 2. Apply for a learner permit online HERE , alternatively you can attend the office in person by booking an appointment HERE . Please make sure you have all the required documentation for your application, which is listed HERE . 3. Complete a course of Essential Driver Training (EDT) . On 21 January 2019 the RSA introduced a reduced EDT programme for foreign licence holders that cannot exchange their licence in Ireland. These drivers can apply to avail of reduced EDT , where they are now required to undertake a minimum of six rather than twelve driving lessons. They can also apply to be exempt from the usual six-month waiting period before first time learner permit holders can sit a driving test. 4. Book your Driving test HERE by following the RSA steps. 5. If you pass your driving test , you can then apply for a full Irish driving licence HERE . It is an offence to drive without a licence : At any point in time, a Garda can ask you to produce your driving licence for inspection. If you do not have your driving licence with you, you must bring it to a Garda station for inspection within 10 days. The law states that, whilst you are driving on a learner permit, a fully licensed driver must always accompany you, regardless of circumstance. This also applies when you are travelling to and from your driving test, even if you have passed the test. Penalties If you are stopped by Gardaí whilst driving unaccompanied on a learner permit: • If you are the vehicle owner, you could incur up to four penalty points and face a fine of up to €120 as well as having your vehicle impounded. • If you are not the vehicle owner, the owner may face a fine of up to €1,000 and have their vehicle impounded.

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