Ireland Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Ireland Driving Licence : Driving licences in Ireland are issued by the Road Safety Authority (RSA). Here is an overview:

Types of Licences

  • Irish Driving Licence – For residents and citizens driving in Ireland.
  • International Driving Permit – For visitors driving in Ireland along with their native licence.

Minimum Driving Age

Licence CategoryMinimum Age
AM (Mopeds)16 years
A1 (Light Motorcycles)16 years
A2 (Medium Motorcycles)18 years
A (Motorcycles)24 years
B (Cars)17 years
C (Trucks)18 years
D (Buses)24 years

Licence Categories

  • AM – Mopeds
  • A1 – Light motorcycles
  • A2 – Medium motorcycles
  • A – Motorcycles
  • B – Cars
  • BE – Car + trailer
  • C – Trucks
  • CE – Trucks + trailer
  • D – Buses
  • DE – Bus + trailer

Licence Validity

  • 10 years for car and motorcycle licences.
  • 5 years for bus and truck licences.

Obtaining a New Ireland Driver’s Licence

To get your first Irish driving licence:

Eligibility

You must:

  • Meet minimum age requirement
  • Pass theory test
  • Pass practical driving test
  • Submit application form

Required Documents

  • Application form
  • Theory test pass certificate
  • Medical report form
  • ID documents

Steps

  1. Study the Rules of the Road and pass the theory test.
  2. Submit medical report completed by your doctor.
  3. Book and pass the practical driving test.
  4. Submit completed licence application form with documents and fee.
  5. New licence will be issued within 10 days if approved.

Renewing an Ireland Driver’s Licence

Irish driving licences must be renewed before expiration:

Renewal Period

  • Car and motorcycle licences expire after 10 years.
  • Commercial vehicle licences expire after 5 years.

Renewal Process

  • Renew online or by post within 3 months of expiry.
  • Submit new passport-style photo.
  • Pay the renewal fee.
  • New licence will be issued once application approved.

Expired Licences

  • Driving with an expired licence is illegal.
  • Licences expired over 5 years require taking the driving tests again.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Ireland Licence

If your Irish driving licence is lost or stolen:

Reporting

  • Report it to the Gardaí immediately and obtain reference number.

Application

  • Apply for replacement on RSA website or form.
  • Submit Garda report reference number and ID.
  • Pay required replacement fee.

Temporary Permit

  • Print temporary permit to drive until new licence arrives.

New Licence

  • A new plastic card licence will be issued within 10 days.

Changing Your Address on an Ireland Licence

When moving within Ireland, you must update your driving licence:

Notification

  • Notify RSA of your new address online or by post.

Application

  • Submit to RSA:
    • Completed address change application form
    • Proof of address
    • Current photocard licence
    • Application fee

Updated Licence

  • You will receive a new plastic licence card showing your updated address.

Taking the Driver’s Exam for an Ireland Licence

To qualify for an Irish driving licence, you must pass a standardized driving test:

Theory Test

  • Computerized test with 40 multiple choice questions on road signs and rules.
  • Offered in over 20 languages.
  • Pass mark is 35/40.

Practical Driving Test

  • Assess actual driving with approved tester and vehicle.
  • Test route includes urban and rural roads, reversing around corners, parking.
  • Marks for controls, awareness, eco-driving.
  • Pass results in licence approval.

Traffic Fines and Penalties in Ireland

Driving violations can lead to penalty points, fines, and disqualification:

Common Offences and Fines

  • Speeding – €80 and 3 penalty points
  • Using mobile phone – €60 and 3 points
  • No valid insurance – €500-€2500 fine
  • Running red light – €80 and 3 points

Serious Offences

  • Dangerous driving – Disqualification and/or €5000 fine and up to 6 months imprisonment
  • Drunk driving – Disqualification from 1-6 years + fine
  • Causing death by dangerous driving – Up to 10 years imprisonment

Penalty Points System

  • 12 penalty points in 3 years may result in disqualification.

FAQs on Ireland Driving Licence

1. Is an International Driving Permit required for Ireland?

Yes, non-EU visitors must carry an IDP to legally drive in Ireland along with their home licence.

2. What vehicles can a holder of a B category licence drive?

An Irish B licence covers vehicles up to 3,500 kg with up to 8 passenger seats.

3. How do I convert my foreign licence to an Irish licence?

You don’t need to convert licences. Just use your current licence along with an IDP to drive in Ireland as a visitor.

4. Can I drive automatic car with manual licence?

Yes, you can drive automatic cars in Ireland with a manual driving licence.

5. Is my licence from another EU country valid in Ireland?

Yes, EU licences are fully valid for driving in Ireland under EU licence recognition.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding Ireland’s licensing rules and procedures is crucial for legally operating vehicles on Irish roads. Following the proper application, testing, renewal and update requirements will help keep your privileges intact. Drive safely!