How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
It may seem difficult to get car insurance in Britain for Northern Ireland drivers, but it's actually a lot easier than you might think. Understanding eligibility, selecting the right insurer, and knowing unique advantages is key to success.
Licences issued by the NI are plastic laminated cards that are similar to European licences and show the bearer's picture as well as their name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts) as well as the address of their home, categories of use and signature.
How do you apply for a NI driving license
A NI driving licence consists of two parts, the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A driver who is new can get a photocard license up to the day before their 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 licence.
You can submit an application online or send a form to NDLS. Include a passport-style photograph that is current with your application. You will receive your new licence within about a week if you apply online. If you apply via post it may take up to three weeks.
NDLS provides a range of information, tips and forms on its website for drivers. You can download a report about your eyesight (DL3 form), medical fit-ness guidance and forms, as well as health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers must fill out an FEP1 form in order to inform NDLS of their condition.
It is an obligation of law to carry your driver's licence whenever you are driving. 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 frontier worker who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for work, you may be exempt from having to exchange your EU/ EEA driving licence. The exception applies if you are employed under a temporary contract and you 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 approximately two months before the date your current one expires, and then every three years from that point on. When this call is not made, you should continue renewing your license in the UK/NI region by filling out the DL1R renewal form and sending it to NDLS along with your current photocard.
License holders who aren't from the EEA or the UK will have to change their licences to move to Ireland. If, however, you have categories on your licence for the UK/NI which indicate a minibus or a bus with 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 is a multiple-choice test that has 50 questions on road markings and signs. Answers are displayed on screen, and you must select the option that is most appropriate to the question. You can change your answer at any time during the test. However you must ensure that you choose the correct option. Based on your answers you may be awarded a specific number of points. You can practice your test theory by using the online DVSA mock tests. You can find them on the DVSA's website, and some libraries in public have them too. Bring your photocard and paper equivalent to the theory test center. You should arrive 15 minutes early.
Online applications are the quickest and most convenient method to schedule your test. You can download the application form (pdf) or download it from the NDLS site or from an NDLS center. You can also contact the NDLS Customer Service team to schedule tests by phone or via mail. If you wish to change or cancel your test you must notify us within 5 business days prior to the date of your appointment. Otherwise, you will lose the test fee.
You will need to bring a valid photo ID on the day of your test, such as an EU passport or a UK passport with a valid NI address. You can also bring electronic proof of identity, such as a bank statement that has your name and NI address.
To improve your chances of success, it's advised to use authentic RSA revision materials. 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 look up the most recent edition of the RSA theory test questions.
If you have any particular requirements, you can ask for an interpreter or a person to help you take your theory test. This can be done by selecting the appropriate box on the application for the theory test form. You can also request an Irish Sign Language interpreter by calling 0818 606 106.
The test in the real world
If you have a UK provisional driving license and wish 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 prior to booking your test. You can find out how any personal information you send to the DVA will be dealt with by reading their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window/ tab).
The first step is passing the theory test, which is held in two parts, a multiple choice section and the hazard perception portion. To pass the test, a candidate must correctly answer 43 out of 50 questions. Those who pass will be able to book their driving test in the practical format.
The driving test can be conducted in a vehicle used by a representative or in the candidate's personal. If a candidate opts to drive their vehicle, it must be roadworthy, have L-plates displayed on the back and front, valid insurance, and the original NCT disk (if applicable). If the examiner finds any problems, like tyres or lights not working, the test will be cancelled.
After passing the practical driving test, the candidate receives an award certificate that acts as a temporary Category B license for a period of 2 years. This allows them to drive, purchase full car insurance and even purchase a vehicle before they receive their permanent license in the mail.
The driver is allowed to only be granted a provisional license for two years. The candidate can take professional driving lessons with a licensed instructor and learn to drive on the motorway. This will enable them to get a full licence sooner than they otherwise would be allowed.
The driving test can be cancelled by the applicant who cancels at least three working days in advance. If they do not give the required notice and they are denied 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. In Northern Ireland it is issued by NDLS (National Driving Licence Service).
When applying for a NI driving licence it is required to provide some form of proof of identity like an identity card or passport. UK birth certificate. Additionally, you will need to take a photo and sign your application form. These requirements are in place to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum standards of driving in Northern Ireland are granted a license.
The applicants may be required to take an examination for medical reasons, based on their medical condition and age. If you're unsure if you'll need a medical report then the NDLS has more information.
The NDLS also provides a number 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 the required documents, you can make your application at an NDLS centre. The documents you submit will be used by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also need to have a digital signature and your photograph taken. You will receive a copy of the photo that you can keep in your vehicle to use as a reference if you're arrested by police.
You will also be required to have access to an appropriate vehicle for your test. The 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 recommended. There is a waiting list for some of the tests, therefore it is crucial to book your appointment as soon as possible. The NDLS also provides a telephone reservation service, which could be beneficial for those who don't want to travel long distances for an testing center. Buy C1 E License Online is available at 028 902 0410. The cost for a driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for car, motorcycle or moped; PS80 for taxis; and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.