How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
It may seem difficult to obtain insurance for cars in Britain for Northern Ireland drivers, but it's actually much simpler than you think. Knowing the eligibility requirements, choosing the right insurer and understanding the unique advantages is essential to success.
Licences issued in NI are laminated plastic cards similar to European licences. They show the bearer's photograph, 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 driving licence
The NI driving licence is made up of two parts of the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can get a photocard driving licence anytime up to the day before their 17th birthday, however they are not allowed to drive until their birth date. A new driver must pass a test of theory and practical driving test to earn 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 get your new driving licence. If you apply by post it could take up three weeks.
NDLS offers a variety of information and tips on its website to help drivers, including guidelines and forms. You can download a report about your eyesight (DL3 form) medical fit-ness guidance and forms and health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers are required to fill out the FEP1 form to inform NDLS about their condition.
It is an obligation of law to carry your driving licence at all times you are 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. It is not necessary to exchange your EU/EEA driver's license if you are a border worker who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. The exception applies if you are employed on a temporary basis and return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
The driving authority will notify you about renewing your license when you reach 70. This will happen approximately two months before the expiration date of your current license and every three years thereafter. In the meantime, you must continue to renew your UK/NI licence by using the DL1R application form for renewal form. Then, send it to NDLS with your current photocard and the paper counterpart.
Licence holders who are from outside the EEA and the UK have to exchange their licences when they move to the Republic of Ireland. If you have codes on your UK/NI driving licence that indicate a bus minibus, trailer, or bus (category d1 and d1e) or that indicate it is not used for hire or reward These codes cannot be transferred to an Irish licence.
The theory test
The test for the theory is a multiple-choice test that includes 50 questions about road signs and markings. The answers are displayed on the screen, and you are required to select one of the choices that best match the question. You are able to change your answer at any time during the test. However, you must make sure that you select the correct option. You could earn a certain number points based on the answers you provide. You can take a test on your theory using the online DVSA mock tests. These are available on the DVSA website, and a few public libraries also have them. Bring your photocard and paper equivalent to the test center. You must arrive 15 minutes prior to the test.
The most efficient and quickest method of booking your test is to apply online. Buy Northern Ireland Driving Licence can download the application form (pdf) either via the NDLS website or from an NDLS center. You can also contact the NDLS customer service department to book your test over the phone or by post. You must cancel or reschedule your test at least 5 days before the scheduled appointment. If you don't, you'll forfeit the test fee.
You will need to bring an acceptable photo ID on the day of your test, such as an EU passport or a UK passport that has a valid NI address. You can also use electronic proof of your identity, such a bank statement with your name and NI address.
To improve your chances of success, it is recommended that you use authentic RSA revision material. 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 requirements, you can request an interpreter or a person to help you take your test. You can do this by selecting the appropriate box on the application for the theory test form. You can also request an interpreter who speaks sign language by calling 0818-606106.
The test in the real world
If you have a UK provisional licence and want to take a motorbike, car or bus/lorry practical test in Northern Ireland, you will need to be normally resident in the province. You must fill out a DVA residency declaration form before taking your test to prove you are a resident of Northern Irish. You can view the way in which any personal information you provide to the DVA will be dealt with by reading their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window or tab).
The first step in the process is to pass the test in theory. It is divided into two sections: one with multiple-choice questions and the other section on danger perception. To pass the test, a candidate must be able to answer correctly 43 of the 50 questions. Those who pass can book their driving test in the practical format.
The driving test may be taken in a vehicle used by a representative or in the candidate's personal. If a candidate is using their own vehicle, they should ensure that it is roadworthy, has their L-plates front and rear, has valid insurance and the original NCT disc (if applicable). If the examiner discovers any defects, such as tyres or lights not functioning, the test will be cancelled.
After passing the test for practical driving The candidate is issued an award certificate that acts as a temporary Category B license for two years. This permits them to drive, purchase full car insurance, and even purchase a vehicle before they receive their permanent license in the mail.
The driver must be accompanied by a competent driver who is at least the age of 21 for the duration of their two-year provisional license which they are able to be able to keep for two years. However, the driver can also undergo professional driving lessons with a certified driving instructor and be certified to drive on motorways, which will allow them to obtain a full license sooner than they would have otherwise been able to.
The driving test could be cancelled by the applicant if they cancel at least three working days in advance. If they fail to provide the required notice they will not be entitled to any refund.
The cost for the driving test is $120.
A driving licence is an official document that permits the holder to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. In the United Kingdom, this document is managed by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). In Northern Ireland, it is issued by the National Driving Licence Service (NDLS).
You will need to submit a form of identification to apply for a NI license. This could be a passport, or a UK Birth Certificate. You will also need to take a picture and sign the application form. These requirements are designed to ensure that only those who meet the minimum requirements for driving in NI are issued a license.
Applicants might be required to undergo a medical examination, depending on their health and age. The NDLS can provide more information in case you aren't sure if you will need a medical report.
The NDLS offers a variety of exemptions to these requirements. However, to apply for an exemption you must submit a completed medical report from your doctor.
After you have submitted the required documents, you can apply at an NDLS center. The NDLS will utilize your documentation to verify your identity. In addition, you are required to get your photo taken and signed digitally. You will receive a copy of your photograph to keep in your car to refer to if you're stopped by the police.
You will also need to have access to a representative vehicle for your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and possess a valid NCT disc front and rear, insurance cover and original motor tax discs.
It is recommended that you make your appointment for your driving test in advance. There is an application waiting list for some of the tests, therefore it is important to make your appointment as soon as you can. The NDLS also offers a telephone booking service that can be beneficial for those who do not want to travel long distances to the testing center. This service is available by calling 028 902 0410. The cost for the driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for moped, car, or motorcycle; PS80 for taxis; and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.