How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain may seem daunting but it's a lot easier than you think. Knowing the eligibility requirements, choosing the right insurance provider and understanding unique advantages is key to success.
Licences issued by the NI are plastic laminated cards that are similar to European licences and show the bearer's photo and name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts) as well as the address of their home, allowed categories and signature.
How do you apply for a NI driver licence
The NI driving licence is made up of two parts: the plastic photocard, and the paper counterpart. A new driver can obtain a photocard license up to the day prior to the day of his or her 17th birthday. However, they are not able to drive till their date of birth. To get a full driver's license, a new driver must pass both a theoretical and practical test.
You can submit an application online or by mailing an application form to NDLS. Include a passport-style photo that is current with your application. If you apply online, it should take about one week to get your new driving license. If you submit your application by mail it could take up three weeks.
NDLS provides a variety of information, advice and forms on its website for drivers. You can download a report on your eyesight (DL3 form) medical fit-ness guidance and forms along with health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers are required to fill out the FEP1 form in order to inform NDLS about their condition.
You must always carry your driving license in the vehicle. Driving without a valid driver's licence is illegal and could result in an arrest and a fine from An Garda S ochana. You may not have to exchange your EU/EEA driving license if you're a border worker who frequently travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. The exemption applies for those who are employed on a temporary basis and return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
When Read Webpage reach the age of 70, you will be contacted regarding renewing your licence by the driving agency about two months before the date your current one expires, and then every three years from then on. Until you receive this contact you must continue to renew your UK/NI license using the DL1R application for renewal form. Then, submit it to NDLS along with your current photocard and the paper counterpart.
License holders who aren't from the EEA or the UK will need to exchange their licences to move to Ireland. If, however, you have categories on your licence from the UK or Northern Ireland indicating a bus or minibus with a trailer (category D1 and D1E) or a code indicating that it is not for hire or reward the codes aren't transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The test for theory comprises 50 questions pertaining to road signs and markings. The answers are displayed on the screen, and you are required to select one of the options that is most appropriate to the question. You can alter your answer at any time during the test. However, you must make sure that you choose the correct answer. You could earn some points based on the answers you provide. On-line DVSA mock tests allow you to practice for your theory test. These are available on the DVSA website, and a few public libraries also stock them. Bring both your photocard and paper equivalent to the test center. You should arrive 15 minutes earlier.
Online application is the fastest and most efficient method of scheduling your test. You can download the application form (pdf), either via the NDLS website or from an NDLS center. You can also call the NDLS customer service department to book your test on the phone or via post. You must cancel or reschedule your test at least 5 days prior to the time of the test. Otherwise, you'll lose the test fee.
You'll need an acceptable photo ID on the day of your test, such as an EU passport or a UK passport with an active NI address. You may also present electronic proof of your identity, such a bank statement that includes your name and NI address.
It is recommended to make use of official RSA revision materials to improve your chances of passing the test. You can purchase the learning portal subscription, books and CD-ROMs on the RSA website, or you can borrow the books from your local library. It is also recommended to take a look at the most current edition of the RSA theory test questions.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to help you take your theory test if there are any special requirements. This can be done by ticking the appropriate box on your application for the theory test form (pdf). You can also request an Irish Sign Language interpreter by calling 0818 606 106.
The practical test
If you hold a UK provisional licence and wish to take a car, motorbike or bus/lorry theory or practice test in Northern Ireland, you will need to be normally resident in the province. To prove this, you have to fill out a residency declaration form to the DVA before booking your test. You can see how any personal information you provide to the DVA will be handled by going to their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window / tab).
The first step of the process is passing the theory test. It is split into two sections: an multiple-choice section as well as a section on the perception of hazards. To pass the test, the candidate must correctly answer 43 out of 50 questions. Those who pass the test are allowed to take the practical driving test.
The driving test can be taken in a vehicle used by a representative or the candidate's own. If a candidate chooses to take their own vehicle, it must be roadworthy, and have their L-plates on their front and back, valid insurance, and the original NCT disk (if applicable). The test is cancelled if the examiner finds any defects such as non-functioning tyres and lights.
Once the practical driving test is passed, the driver is issued a pass certificate that serves as temporary category B license for two years. This permits the driver to drive, obtain full car insurance and even buy a car before they receive their permanent license in the mail.
The driver is only able to be granted a provisional license for two years. However, the driver can also undergo professional driving instruction with a licensed driving instructor and be certified to drive on a motorway which allows them to get a full licence sooner than they would have otherwise been permitted to.
The driving test may be cancelled if the candidate gives at least three working days' notice to cancel their appointment. If they do not give the required time they will not be entitled to a refund.
The fee for the driving test
A driving licence is legally valid document that permits the holder to drive a motor vehicle on public roads. In the United Kingdom this document is administered the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. In Northern Ireland, it is issued by the National Driving Licence Service (NDLS).
When applying for a NI driving licence, you will need to provide some form of proof of identity, such as passport or UK birth certificate. You will also need to sign and take a photo of your application. These requirements are designed to ensure that only those who meet the minimum standards for driving in Northern Ireland are granted a licence.
Candidates may be required to undergo an examination for medical reasons, based on their health and age. If you're not sure if you will require medical records then the NDLS has more information.
Read Webpage offers a variety of exemptions to these requirements. However, to apply for an exemption you must submit the completed medical report of your doctor.
After you have submitted all the necessary documents, you can submit your application at an NDLS centre. Your documents will be used by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also need to have an electronic signature and a photo taken. You will be provided with a copy of the photo that you can keep in your vehicle to use as a reference if you're arrested by police.
You must provide an appropriate vehicle to conduct your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and have a valid NCT disc front and rear, insurance cover and original motor tax discs.
The scheduling of your driving test in advance is highly advised. There is a waiting list for some of the tests, so it is crucial to book your appointment as soon as you are able to. The NDLS also provides a phone booking service that can be helpful for those who don't wish to travel long distances for a testing centre. You can contact this service at 028 902 4410. The fee for a driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for moped, car or motorcycle; PS80 for taxis; and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.