How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
It might seem difficult to obtain insurance for your car in Britain for Northern Ireland drivers, but it's actually a lot easier than you might think. Understanding eligibility, the unique benefits and selecting the right insurance is the key to success.
Licences issued in NI are laminated plastic cards similar to European licences and show the bearer's photo as well as their name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts), home address as well as the categories that are allowed and signature.
How to apply for a driving license
A NI driving licence consists of two parts: the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can obtain the photocard driving license anytime up to the day prior to the 17th birthday of their child, however they cannot drive until their birthday. To get a full driving licence, a driver who is new must pass both a theory and practical test.
You can apply online or send an application form to NDLS. It is essential to include a current passport-type photo in your application. You should receive your new licence in approximately a week if you apply online. If you send in your application by post, it could take up to three weeks.
NDLS provides a variety 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. Applicants with epilepsy must complete an FEP1 form in order to inform NDLS of their condition.
It is legally required to carry your driving licence whenever you are in the vehicle. Driving without a valid license is illegal. An Garda S could arrest you and penalize you. ochana. You may not have to exchange your EU/EEA driving license if you are an employee of a border agency who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. If you are working on temporary employment and plan to return to your home country for the duration of that contract, then you will not have to exchange your driving licence.
The driving authority will notify you about renewing your license when you reach the age of 70. This will happen about two months before the expiration date of your current license and every three years after that. 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 submitting it to NDLS together with your current photocard.
Licence holders from countries that are not part of the EEA and the UK have to change their licences when they relocate to the Republic of Ireland. However, if there are categories on your licence from the UK or Northern Ireland which indicate a minibus or a bus with a trailer (category D1 and D1E) or a code that indicates that it is not for hire or reward the codes aren't 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. The answers are displayed on the screen and you are required to select one of the answers that best match the question. It is possible to alter your answer during the test, however, you must ensure that you select the correct answer before you submit your answers. Depending on your answers, you may be awarded a certain amount of points. On-line DVSA mock tests allow you to practice your theory test. They are available on the DVSA website and some public libraries also stock them. You are required to bring both the paper and photocopies of your driving license (photocard and paper counterpart) to the test centre, and be there 15 minutes early.
The quickest and easiest method to book your 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 department to book your test on the phone or by post. You must cancel or reschedule your test at least 5 days before the date of your appointment. You'll lose the test fee if you do not.
You must bring an acceptable photo ID on the day of your test, such as an EU passport or an UK passport with an active NI address. You can also use electronic proof of your identity, such as a bank statement that has your name and NI address.
It is advisable to use official RSA revision materials to improve your chances of passing the test. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription and books, or borrow them from the local library. You should also look up the most recent edition of the RSA theory test questions.
If you have any specific requirements, you can ask for an interpreter or helper to take your theory test. This can be done by ticking the appropriate box on your theory test application form (pdf). You can also request an interpreter who speaks sign language by phoning 0818 606106.
The test in the real world
If you are a holder of a UK provisional driving licence and are looking to take a theory or a practical test for a motorcycle, car or bus/lorry in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. You must submit an DVA residency declaration form before taking your test to prove that you are a resident of Northern Ireland. You can see how any personal information that you provide to the DVA will be handled by visiting their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window/ tab).
The first step of the process is passing the theory test. It is divided into two parts, one with multiple-choice questions and the other section on the perception of hazards. To pass the test, a candidate must be able to answer correctly 43 of the 50 questions. Those who pass the test are allowed to take the practical driving test.
The driving test can be conducted in a car used by a representative or in the candidate's car. If expressdrivinglicense is using their own vehicle, they should ensure that it is roadworthy, has their L-plates both front and rear as well as valid insurance and the original NCT disc (if applicable). The test is cancelled if the examiner finds any defects such as non-functioning tyres and lights.
After passing the practical driving test, the candidate receives a pass certificate which acts as a temporary Category B license for a period of 2 years. This permits them to obtain full insurance, drive and even buy an automobile before their permanent license arrives in the post.
The driver can only be granted a provisional license for two years. The applicant can attend professional driving lessons with a licensed instructor and learn to drive on the motorway. This will enable them to obtain a full license sooner than they would otherwise have been allowed.
The driving test could be canceled by the applicant in the event that 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 fee for the driving test is $120.
A driving license is a legal document that permits its holder to drive motor vehicles 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 provide an identification document when applying for a NI licence. 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 standards for driving in NI are issued a license.
The applicants may be required to undergo a medical test depending on their medical health and age. The NDLS can provide additional information if you are unsure if you will need an medical report.
The NDLS also offers a variety of exemptions from these requirements. To apply for an exception, you will need to submit a medical report from your physician.
After you have completed all the required documents, you can visit an NDLS centre to make your application in person. The NDLS will use your documents to verify your identity. In addition, you will be required to have your photo taken and signed digitally. You will be given a the photocopy to keep in your car for reference if you are stopped by the police.
You will also need to have access to a representative vehicle to take your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and possess a valid NCT disc front and rear, insurance coverage and original motor tax discs.
Booking your driving test in advance is highly recommended. It is important to book your test as quickly as you can. There are waiting lists for some tests. The NDLS offers a phone booking system for those who don't want to go to a testing center. This service can be contacted by calling 028 902 0410. The cost for an Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for cars, motorcycles and mopeds Taxis are charged at PS80 and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.