How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
It can be difficult to obtain insurance for cars in Britain for Northern Ireland drivers, but it is actually much easier than you might think. Understanding eligibility, selecting the right insurance provider and understanding the unique advantages is essential to success.
The licenses issued in Northern Ireland are plastic laminated cards, similar to European licenses, that show the bearer’s photo, their name (in Latin or Cyrillic), their home address as well as the categories they are allowed to use and their signature.
How do you apply for a driving license
A NI driving licence consists of two parts: the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can get an electronic driving licence with a photocard anytime up to the day before the 17th birthday of their child, however they are not allowed to drive until their birth date. To get a full driver's licence, a new driver must pass both a theoretical and practical test.
You can apply online or mail an application form to NDLS. Include a passport-style photograph that is current when you submit your application. You will get your new license in approximately a week if you apply online. If you submit your application by mail it may take up to three weeks.
NDLS offers a variety of information and guidance on its website to assist drivers with their driving, including forms and guidelines. You can download an eyesight report (DL3 form) along with medical fitness guidance and forms, health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers are required to fill out the FEP1 questionnaire to inform NDLS about their condition.
You must always have your driving license in the vehicle. Driving without a valid driver's licence is illegal and could lead to an arrest and fine from An Garda S ochana. If you are a border worker and regularly travel between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to work, you may be exempt from having exchange your EUor EEA driving license. This exemption is available for those who are employed on a temporary contract and you return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
If you're over 70, you will be contacted regarding renewing your license by the driving department about two months before your present licence expires. It will be renewed every three years from then on. Until this contact is received, you should continue renewing your UK/NI license by using the DL1R renewal form and submitting it to NDLS along with your existing photocard.
Licence holders who are not from the EEA or the UK will have to exchange their licences to move to Ireland. If you have codes on your UK/NI driving licence that indicate a bus minibus, trailer, or bus (category d1 and d1e) or indicate that it is not for reward or hire the codes can't be transferred to an Irish licence.
The theory test
The test for theory comprises 50 questions about markings and road signs. Answers are displayed on the screen, and you must select the answer that best fits the question. It is possible to change your answer during the test but you must make sure to select the correct answer before you submit your answers. You could earn an amount of points based on the answers you provide. You can take a test on your theory using the online DVSA mock tests. They are accessible on the DVSA website, and some public libraries also stock these. Bring your photocard as well as paper equivalent to the theory test center. You must arrive 15 minutes prior to the test.
The fastest and most convenient way to book your theory test is to apply online. You can download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or pick up the form from an NDLS centre. Buy C1 E License Online can contact the NDLS Customer Service team to make an appointment for a test by phone or via mail. You must cancel or reschedule your test at least five days prior to the scheduled appointment. Otherwise, you'll lose your test fee.
You'll need a valid photo ID on the day of your test, like an EU passport or an UK passport that has a valid NI address. You can also bring electronic proof of your identity, such as a bank statement that has your name and your NI address.
To improve your chances of success, it's advised to use the official RSA revision material. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription and books, or borrow them from your local library. You can download the most recent version of the RSA Theory Test Questions.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to assist you take your theory test if you have any special requirements. This can be done by marking 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 have a UK provisional driving license and are looking to take a practical or theory test for a motorcycle, car or bus/lorry in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. To prove this, you need to fill out a residency declaration form to the DVA prior to booking your test. You can see how any personal information that 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 is passing the theory test, which is administered in two sections, an multiple choice section as well as an hazard perception section. To pass the test, the candidate must correctly answer 43 of the 50 questions. Those who pass can take their practical driving test.
The driving test may be conducted in a representative car or in the candidate's car. If a candidate chooses to use 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). The test is cancelled if the examiner discovers any flaws, such as malfunctioning lights or tyres.
After passing the practical driving test The candidate is issued an award certificate that acts as an interim Category B licence for two years. This allows them to drive, purchase full insurance for their car and buy a car before their permanent license arrives in the mail.
The driver is only able to hold a provisional licence for two years. The applicant is able to take professional driving lessons with a qualified instructor and learn to drive on the motorway. This will enable them to obtain a full license sooner than they otherwise would be allowed.
The driving test could be canceled by the applicant if they cancel at least three days in advance. If they fail to provide the required notice, they will not receive any refund.
The cost for the driving test is $120.
A driving license is a legal document which allows the holder to operate an automobile 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).
You'll need to submit a form of identification when applying for a NI licence. This could be a passport or a UK Birth Certificate. You will also have to sign and take a picture of your application. These rules are in place to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum standards of driving in Northern Ireland are granted a license.
Candidates may be required to take an examination for medical reasons, based on their medical condition and age. If you are unsure whether you will require medical records then the NDLS has more information.
The NDLS also offers a variety of exemptions from these requirements. To be eligible for an exemption, you will need to provide a medical certificate from your physician.
After you have submitted all of the necessary documents, you are able to visit an NDLS center to submit your application in person. The documents you submit will be used by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also have to present digital signatures and a photo taken. You will be provided with a copy of the photograph that you can keep in your vehicle to refer to if you are stopped by police.
You will be required to provide a representative vehicle to use to conduct your test. This vehicle must be roadworthy and include an NCT disc that is valid front and rear, insurance cover and original motor tax discs.
The scheduling of your driving test in advance is highly advised. It is important to book your test as quickly as you can. There are waiting lists for certain tests. The NDLS offers a phone booking system for those who do not wish to travel to a testing center. The service can be reached at 028 902 0410. The fee for the Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for motorbikes, cars or mopeds PS80 for taxis, and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.