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 insurer and understanding specific advantages is the key to success.
The licenses issued in Northern Ireland are plastic laminated cards similar to European licenses. They show the photo of the bearer, their name (in Latin or Cyrillic), their home address as well as the categories they are allowed to use and their signature.
How to apply for an NI driving license
A NI driving license is composed of two parts, the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can obtain a photocard licence up until the day before the day of his or her 17th birthday. However, they cannot drive until the date of birth. A new driver must pass a theory test as well as a practical driving test in order to obtain their full license.
You can apply online or send an application form to NDLS. You must submit a current passport-style photo along when you submit your application. If you apply online it will take approximately one week to receive your new driving licence. If you submit your application by mail it may take up to three weeks.
NDLS provides a range of advice, information and forms on its website for drivers. You can download a report about 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 questionnaire to inform NDLS about their condition.
You must always carry your driving licence in the vehicle. Driving without a valid driving licence is illegal and could lead to an arrest and fine from An Garda S ochana. If you are a border worker who frequently travels between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to work, you could be exempt from having exchange your EUor EEA driving licence. The exemption applies when you are working under a temporary contract 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 license by the driving agency approximately two months before your present one expires and every three years from that point on. In the meantime, until you receive this notification it is recommended that you continue renewing your license in the UK/NI region by filling out the DL1R renewal form and sending it to NDLS together with your current photocard.
Licence holders from countries outside the EEA and the UK must exchange their licences when they move to the Republic of Ireland. If, however, you have categories on your licence for the UK/NI indicating a bus or minibus with trailer (category D1 and D1E) or a code that indicates that it is not for hire or reward, these codes are not transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The test for the theory is a multiple choice exam that has 50 questions on road signs and markings. Answers are displayed on screen, and you must select the option that best matches the question. You are able to change your answer at any point during the test. However, you must make sure that you choose the correct option. Depending on your answers, you could be awarded a specific number of points. Online DVSA mock test will allow you to practice for your theory exam. These are available on the DVSA website, and a few public libraries also have them. Bring both your photocard and paper equivalent to the theory test center. You should arrive 15 minutes early.
The most efficient and quickest method of booking your theory test is to apply online. You can download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or request a copy from an NDLS centre. You can also contact the NDLS customer service team to book your test on the phone or via post. You must cancel or reschedule your test at least 5 days before the time of the test. If you don't, you'll forfeit the fee for your test.
On the day of the test you'll need an ID with a valid photo. This can be an EU passport or UK passport with an NI address. You can also present an electronic identity proof, such as the bank statement or a utility bill that has your name and address printed on it.
It is recommended to use official RSA revision materials to increase your chances of passing the test. Buy UK driving licence online expressdrivinglicense can purchase the learning portal subscription, books, and CD-ROMs from the RSA website or borrow them from your local library. Take a look at the latest version of the RSA Theory Test Questions.
If you have any specific needs, you can ask for an interpreter or a person to help you take your theory test. This is done by checking the appropriate box on your application for the theory test form (pdf). You can also request an interpreter who speaks sign language by phoning 0818 606106.
The test in the real world
If you have a UK provisional licence and wish to take a motorbike, car or bus/lorry theory or practice test in Northern Ireland, you will need to be normally resident in the province. You must submit the DVA residency declaration form prior to taking your test to prove you are an resident of Northern Ireland. You can view 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 conducted in two parts: the multiple choice section and an hazard perception section. To pass the test, the applicant must be able to answer correctly 43 of the 50 questions. Passing candidates will be able to book their practical driving test.
The driving test could be conducted in a representative car or in the vehicle of the candidate. If a candidate chooses to use their own vehicle, they need to ensure that it is roadworthy, that it has their L-plates on the front and back as well as valid insurance and the original NCT disc (if applicable). If the examiner finds any problems, like lights or tyres not functioning, the test will be cancelled.
After the practical driving test is passed, the candidate receives a certificate of pass which serves as a temporary category B licence for two years. This permits them to obtain full insurance and to drive, and even purchase vehicles before their permanent license arrives through the mail.
The driver is only able to be granted a provisional license for two years. However, the candidate may also attend professional driving lessons with an approved driving instructor and be certified to drive on a motorway, which will allow them to obtain a full license sooner than they would have otherwise been permitted to.
The driving test can be cancelled if the applicant gives at least three full working days' notice to cancel their appointment. If they do not give the required notice or notice, they will not be able to claim any refund.
The cost for driving tests
A driving licence is a legal document that allows the holder to drive 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 NDLS (National Driving Licence Service).
You will need to submit an identification document when applying for an NI licence. This could be a passport, or a UK Birth Certificate. You will also be required to sign and take a photo of your application. These requirements are in place to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum standards of driving in Northern Ireland are granted the right to drive.
The applicants may be required to undergo an examination to determine their medical condition, based on their health and age. If you are unsure whether you'll need a medical report then the NDLS has more information.
The NDLS also provides a variety of exemptions from these requirements. To be eligible for an exemption, you will need to provide a medical certificate from your physician.
Once you have submitted all of the necessary documents, you can visit an NDLS centre to make your application in person. The NDLS will utilize your documentation to verify your identity, and you will be required to take your photo taken and signed digitally. 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 stopped by police.
You will also need to use a representative vehicle for your test. This vehicle must be roadworthy and possess an NCT disc that is valid front and rear, insurance cover and original motor tax discs.
It is recommended that you book your driving test well in advance. There is a waiting list for some of the tests, therefore it is important to make your appointment as soon as you can. The NDLS offers a phone booking system for those who do not wish to go to a testing center. Contact the service via 028 902 4410. The cost for a driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for moped, car, or motorcycle; PS80 for taxis; and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.