How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
It may seem difficult to get insurance for cars in Britain for Northern Ireland drivers, but it's actually much simpler than you think. Understanding eligibility, choosing the right insurance provider and understanding specific advantages is the key to success.
The licences issued in Northern Ireland are plastic laminated cards similar to European licenses. They display the bearer’s photo as well as their name (in Latin or Cyrillic), their home address, categories allowed and signature.
How to apply for a driving license
The NI driving licence is made up of two parts: the plastic photocard, and the paper counterpart. A new driver can get a photocard driving licence at any time until the day before their 17th birthday, however they cannot drive until their birthday. To get a full driver's licence, a new driver must pass both a theory as well as a practical test.
You can apply online or send an application form to NDLS. Include a passport-style picture that is current when you submit your application. If you apply online it should take around one week to receive your new driving licence. If you apply by post it could take up three weeks.
NDLS offers a variety of information and guidance on its website to help drivers with forms and guidelines. You can download an eyesight report (DL3 form) along with medical fitness guidance and forms, and health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers must fill out an FEP1 form to inform NDLS of their condition.
You must always have your driving license in the vehicle. Driving without a valid licence is illegal, and An Garda S could arrest you and charge you with a fine. ochana. If you are a border worker who frequently travels between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to work, you may be exempt from having exchange your EUor EEA driving licence. This exemption is available if you are employed on a temporary basis and you return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
When you are over 70 you will be contacted regarding renewing your licence by the driving department about two months before your present one expires and every three years from then on. When this call is not made and you are able to renew your UK/NI licence by filling out the DL1R renewal form and sending it to NDLS together with your current photocard.
Licence holders who are from that are not part of the EEA and the UK must change their licences when they relocate to the Republic of Ireland. However, if you have categories on your UK/NI licence that indicate a minibus or bus with a trailer (category D1 and D1E) or a code that indicates that it's not for hire or reward, these codes are not transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The test for theory comprises 50 questions about markings and road signs. The answers are displayed on the screen, and you must select one of the answers that best match the question. You are able to change your answer at any time during the test. However, you must make sure that you select the correct option. You may receive a certain number points based on your answers. You can practice your test theory by using the online DVSA mock tests. These are available on the DVSA website, and some public libraries also have these. You are required to bring both the paper and photocopies of your driving licence (photocard and paper counterpart) to the test centre, and be 15 minutes earlier than the time indicated.
Online applications are the quickest and most efficient method of scheduling your theory test. You can download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or get a copy from an NDLS centre. You can also call the NDLS customer service team to book your test over via phone or mail. If you want to reschedule or cancel your test you must notify us by 5 business days before your appointment date. You'll forfeit the fee for the test if do not.
You will need to bring an acceptable photo ID on the day of your test, such as an EU passport or an UK passport with a valid NI address. You may also present electronic proof of identity, such a bank statement that includes your name and NI address.
To improve your chances of success, it is recommended that you use authentic RSA revision material. You can purchase the learning portal subscription, books and CD-ROMs from RSA website or borrow the materials from your local library. Also, make sure to check the latest edition of the RSA theory test questions.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to help you with your theory test if you have special requirements. This is done by checking the appropriate box on your application for the theory test form (pdf). You can also request a sign language interpreter by calling the 0818 606106.
The practical test
If you hold a UK provisional licence and want to take a motorbike, car or bus/lorry theory or practical test in Northern Ireland, you will have to be a resident in the province. To prove this, you have to fill out a residency declaration form to the DVA prior to booking your test. Buy A1 and A2 Motocycle Licence Online can find out how any personal information that you provide to the DVA will be handled by visiting their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window or tab).
The first step is passing the theory test, which is held in two parts, an multiple choice section as well as an hazard perception section. To pass the test, the applicant must be able to answer correctly 43 of the 50 questions. Those who pass will be able to book their test for driving practice.
The driving test can be taken in a representative vehicle or in the candidate's personal. If a candidate uses their own vehicle, they must ensure that it is roadworthy, has their L-plates on the front and back as well as valid insurance and the original NCT disc (if applicable). If the examiner detects issues, such as tyres or lights not working the test will be canceled.
After passing the driving test, the candidate receives a pass certificate which acts as a temporary Category B licence for two years. This permits the driver to drive, obtain full insurance for their car and purchase a vehicle before they receive their permanent license in the mail.
The driver is only able to have a provisional license for two years. However, the applicant may also attend professional driving lessons with an approved driving instructor and be certified to drive on motorways and will be able to obtain a full license earlier than they would have otherwise been permitted to.
The driving test could be cancelled by the applicant if they cancel at least three working days in advance. If they fail to give the required notice, they will be denied the right to a refund.
The cost for the driving test is $120.
A driving license is a legal document that allows the holder to operate an automobile on public roads. In the United Kingdom this document is managed by 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 license you must provide evidence of your identity like an identity card or passport. UK birth certificate. You'll also have to take a photograph and sign the application form. These rules are in place to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum standards of driving in Northern Ireland can be granted a license.
Candidates might be required to undergo a medical examination, depending on their age and medical condition. The NDLS can provide more information if you are unsure whether you'll require an medical report.
The NDLS provides a number exemptions to these requirements. To be eligible for an exemption, you will need to provide a medical certificate from your physician.
After you have submitted the required documents, you are able to submit your application at an NDLS center. The documents you submit will be used by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also need to present an electronic signature and a photograph taken. You will receive a duplicate of the photo which you can keep in your car for reference, if you're arrested by police.
You'll also be required to use a representative vehicle to take your test. This vehicle must be roadworthy and have an NCT disc that is valid front and rear, an insurance cover and original motor tax discs.
The scheduling of your driving test in advance is highly recommended. There is a waiting list for certain of the tests, therefore it is important to make your appointment as soon as you are able to. The NDLS offers a phone booking system for those who don't want to travel to a testing facility. The service can be reached by calling 028 902 0410. The fee for an Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for motorbikes, cars or mopeds Taxis are charged at PS80 and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.