Getting Started

Step 1: Apply for your Driver Theory Test

Before you can apply for your Learner Permit, you must pass the theory test. Candidates are tested on their general road safety knowledge and motoring legislation. The test covers areas such as:

• The rules of the road

• Risk perception

• Hazard awareness

• Good driving behaviour

• Eco-driving

A theory test certificate must be obtained before you can apply for your Learner Permit. You can apply for your theory test before your 17th birthday but it will not be valid until your birthday.

For more information on the theory test and to apply online visit Driver Theory Test or simply call 1890 606 106.

Step 2: Eyesight Report Form

A first-time application for a learner permit must be accompanied by a satisfactory eyesight report form D502. This report may be completed by a registered opthalmic optician or medical practitioner. You must sign the eyesight report form in the presence of the optician or doctor. The certificate is then valid for one month.

This document certifies that your eyesight is adequate for driving. It is also required if there is any change with your eyesight and is necessary for all permits and licences.

Step 3: Medical Report Form

This document certifies that you are fit to drive. You only need to complete a medical report form if:

• You are over 70 or will be 70 on the day your licence is issued;

• you answer ´Yes´ to any of the medical questions on Application Form D201;

• you require a licence for a category of vehicle other than an ordinary car.

To have the form completed, make an appointment with a doctor.

Step 4: Complete the Learner Permit Application Form D201

The Learner Permit Application Form D201 is not available to download but is available from your local motor tax office, public libraries and Garda Stations.

Step 5: Return all documentation to your local motor taxation office

Remember to also include the following in your application:

• Proof of your identity. This could include your:

a. original birth certificate;

b. original passport;

c. original certificate of registration from the Garda National Immigration Bureau.

• Two identical recent passport type photos signed by you on the back;

• Appropriate fee (do not enclose cash);

• Eyesight report;

• Medical report (if required);

• Theory Test Certificate.

Step 6: You will receive your Learner Driving Permit

You will receive your Learner Permit by post. You are now legal to take driving lessons.

Step 7: Contact Adrian´s School of Motoring

As you are now eligible to take driving lessons contact Adrian´s School of Motoring on 087 744 0913 or email us[/B] to book your first driving lesson.

Getting your driving licence - The Theory Test

Getting your driving licence - Learner Permit

Getting your driving licence - The Practical Driving Test

The first step to getting your driving licence is to pass the Theory Test. This is a computer based test of general road safety knowledge and motoring legislation. The test is designed to check knowledge of topics such as: • Rules of the Road • Risk perception • Eco-driving • Hazard awareness • Good driving behaviour You will have a chance to take a practice session on the day before starting on the actual test. If you have special needs please contact the Driver Theory Service and explain your requirements.

You can view more information and book your test online on the official Theory test site. You must pass this test before you can apply for your learner permit

Before you can start taking driving lessons, you will need to obtain a Learner permit. To apply, you must be aged 17 or over and have passed the theory test. Learner permits are processed and issued by NDLS. You can download the application form here

A driving test is designed to determine that you:

•Know the Rules of the Road •Possess the knowledge and skill to drive competently in accordance with those rules •Drive with proper regard for the safety and convenience of other road users. Prior to your driving test you should study the Rules of the Road (pdf), a booklet which is published by the Road Safety Authority and is available from bookshops, priced €5. It is also a good idea to practice driving as much as possible on all types of roads and in all types of traffic situations. This will improve your driving techniques and build your confidence. On the day of your test, give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the test centre with a few minutes to spare. If your first learner permit was issued since 4 April 2011 you should bring your logbook from the Essential Driver Training (EDT) you have completed. When your name is called and you are brought into the examination room, your test officially begins.

Technical checks of vehicle

If you are doing a driving test for categories B (car), EB (car with trailer) and W (work vehicle) you must explain some technical checks as part of your test. After you have answered some questions on the Rules of the Road, the instructor will bring you out to your vehicle. You will be asked how a technical check would be performed on 3 of the following; steering, horn, brakes, tyres, lights, reflectors, indicators, engine oil, coolant, windscreen washer fluid. Access to these items will require you demonstrate how to open the bonnet and to close it securely. Read more detailed information on technical checks for all motor vehicles here. If you are doing a test for categories C1, C, EC1 and EC (truck and trucks with trailers) you will be asked how a technical check would be peformed on three of the same items above. Access to these items will require you to open and securely close the bonnet, to open/close panels etc.

Practical test of skills

Your driving test in Ireland will take approximately 30 minutes to complete (depending on traffic). You will be given clear instructions throughout the test, but if you don't understand something, ask the examiner to repeat it. Do not panic if you make a mistake during the test. It may not be as serious as you think and it may not mean you have failed. You will be assessed in the following situations: moving off, driving in traffic, stopping, reversing round a corner, a turn about, a hill-start and parking. The aspects of your driving that will be assessed include • Road positioning • Overtaking and passing • Anticipation and observation • Use of mirrors and signals, progress; speed; • Compliance with traffic lights, road signs and road markings and proper use of your vehicle controls. At some point during your test, the examiner will ask you to demonstrate your hand signals. You can also expect to make a number of left and right turns,