How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
It might seem difficult to get insurance for your car in Britain for Northern Ireland drivers, but it's actually much simpler than you think. Understanding eligibility, the unique benefits and selecting the right insurance is the most important factor to success.
Licenses issued in the United States are laminated plastic cards that are similar to European licences. They show the bearer's picture, name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts), home address as well as the categories that are allowed and signature.
How do I apply for a NI driver licence
The NI driving license is composed of two parts that are the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can obtain an electronic driving licence with a photocard at any time until the day before their 17th birthday, but they are not allowed to drive until their birth date. A new driver must also pass a test of theory and practical driving test in order to obtain their full license.
You can apply online or mail an application form to NDLS. Include a passport-style picture that is current with your application. If you apply online, it should take around one week to receive your new driving license. If you apply via post it may take up to 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 guidelines and forms along with health and driving information leaflets. Patients with epilepsy need to fill out an FEP1 form to advise NDLS of their condition.
It is mandatory to 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 driver's license if you're a border worker who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. The exception applies if you are employed under a temporary contract and return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
When you reach the age of 70, you will be contacted regarding renewing your license by the driving agency about two months prior to when your current one expires and every three years from then on. When this call is not made and you are able to renew 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 need to exchange their licenses in order to move to Ireland. However, if you have categories on your UK/NI licence which indicate a minibus or a bus with a trailer (category D1 and D1E) or a code that indicates that it is not intended for hire or reward, these codes are not transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The theory test consists of 50 questions pertaining to road signs and markings. The answers are displayed on the screen, and you are required to select one of the choices that is most appropriate to the question. You can change your answer at any time during the test. However you must ensure that you select the correct option. You could earn some points based on the answers you provide. You can take a test on your theory using the online DVSA mock tests. They are available on the DVSA website, and some public libraries also stock them. You must bring both parts of your driving licence (photocard and paper counterpart) to the test centre, and you should be 15 minutes early.
The most efficient and quickest method of booking your theory test is to apply online. You can download the application form (pdf) or download it on the NDLS website or from an NDLS center. You can also contact the NDLS customer service to book your test on the phone or by post. You must cancel or reschedule your test at least five days prior to the scheduled appointment. If you don't, you'll forfeit the fee for your test.
On the day of the test you will need a valid photo ID. This could be an EU passport or a UK passport with an NI address. You can also use electronic proof of identity, such as a bank statement that includes your name and the NI address.
It is recommended to make use of official RSA revision materials to increase your chances of passing the test. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription and books or take them out of the local library. Take a look at the latest version of the RSA Theory Test Questions.
If you have any special needs, you can request an interpreter or helper to take your theory test. This can be done by marking the appropriate box on your application for the theory test form (pdf). You can also request a sign language interpreter by calling 0818-606106.
The practical test
If you have a UK provisional driving licence and are looking to take a theory or practical test for a car, motorcycle, bus/lorry or both in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. To prove this, you must submit a residency declaration form to the DVA before you can book your test. You can view how any personal information that you send to the DVA will be handled by visiting their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window/ tab).
The first step in the process is to pass the theory test. It is split into two parts, an multiple-choice section as well as a section on danger perception. To pass the test, the applicant must answer correctly 43 out of 50 questions. The candidates who pass the test are able to take their practical driving test.
The driving test may be conducted in a representative car or in the vehicle of the candidate. If a candidate chooses to use their own vehicle, it must be roadworthy, have L-plates on the back and front, valid insurance and the original NCT disk (if applicable). The test is cancelled if the examiner finds any flaws, such as malfunctioning lights or tyres.
After passing the driving test the driver receives the pass certificate, which serves as an interim Category B licence for two years. This permits them to drive, get full car insurance, and even purchase a car before they receive their permanent license in the mail.
The driver is only able to have a provisional license for two years. The applicant is able to take professional driving lessons with a licensed instructor and learn how to drive on motorways. This will enable them to obtain a full licence sooner than they otherwise would have been allowed.
The driving test could be cancelled by the applicant who cancels at least three days in advance. If they do not give the required notice and they are denied the right to a refund.
The fee for the driving test is $120.
A driving licence is a legal document that allows the holder to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. In the United Kingdom, this document is administered by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). In Northern Ireland, it is issued by the National Driving Licence Service (NDLS).
If you are applying for a NI driving license, you will need to provide identification proof, such as a passport or a UK birth certificate. You will also be required to sign and take a photograph of your application. These requirements are designed to ensure that only those who meet the minimum requirements for driving in NI are issued a license.
Applicants may have to undergo a medical test, depending on their medical condition and age. The NDLS can provide more information on the subject if you're not sure whether you'll need medical reports.
The NDLS also provides a variety of exemptions from these requirements. However, to apply for an exemption you must submit an official medical report from your doctor.
After you have submitted all of the necessary documents, you can visit an NDLS center to submit your application in person. The NDLS will use your documents to verify your identity. You are required to get your photo taken and signed digitally. You will be provided with the photocopy to keep in your car to refer to if you're stopped by the police.
You will need to provide a representative vehicle to use to conduct your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and include an NCT disc that is valid front and rear, an insurance cover and original motor tax discs.
Making your driving test reservations in advance is highly recommended. There is a waiting list for some of the tests, so it is essential to schedule your appointment as soon as you can. The NDLS also offers a telephone booking service that can be helpful for those who do not want to travel long distances for an testing center. Full Record can be contacted at 028 902 0410. The cost for the driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for moped, car or motorcycle Taxis are priced at PS80; and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.