How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain might seem challenging but it's much simpler than you think. Understanding eligibility, unique advantages and selecting the right insurance is essential to achieving success.
Licences issued by the NI are laminated plastic cards similar to European licences. They display the bearer's photo and name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts) and home address, categories of use and signature.
How to apply for a NI driver licence
The NI driving license is composed of two parts: the plastic photocard, and the paper counterpart. A new driver can get the photocard driving license at any time 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 in order to obtain their full license.
You can apply online or mail an application form to NDLS. Include a passport-style photograph that is current with your application. You should receive your new licence in around a week if apply online. If you submit your application via post it could take up to 3 weeks.
NDLS provides a range of information, advice and forms on its website for drivers. You can download an eyesight report (DL3 form) and medical fitness guidelines 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.
You must always have your driving licence in the vehicle. Driving without a valid driver's licence is illegal and could lead to an arrest and a fine from An Garda S ochana. If you are a border worker who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for work, you may be exempt from having exchange your EUor EEA driving licence. The exception applies for those who are employed 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 about renewing your licence by the driving department about two months prior to when your current one expires, and then every three years from then on. When this call is not made, you should continue renewing your license in the UK/NI region by filling out the DL1R renewal application form and submitting it to NDLS along with your current photocard.
License holders who aren't from the EEA or the UK must exchange their licenses in order to move to Ireland. However, if there are 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 for hire or reward the codes aren't transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The test for the theory is a multiple-choice test that includes 50 questions about road markings and signs. Answers are displayed on screen and you have to select the answer that best fits the question. You can alter your answer at any time during the test. However you must ensure that you choose the correct option. Based on your answers, you could be awarded a certain number of points. The online DVSA mock tests allow you to practice your theory test. They are available on the DVSA website and some public libraries also stock these. You must bring both parts of your driving license (photocard and paper counterpart) to the test centre, and be 15 minutes early.
The fastest and most convenient method of booking your test is to apply online. You can also download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or get the form from an NDLS centre. You can also contact the NDLS customer service team to schedule your test over the phone or by post. You must cancel or reschedule your test at least 5 days prior to the time of the test. Otherwise, you will lose your test fee.
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 address for NI. You can also present an electronic identity proof like a bank statement or utility bill that includes your name and address printed on it.
To increase your chances of success, it's advised to make use of the official RSA revision material. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription and books, or borrow them from the local library. Take a look at the latest version of the RSA Theory Test Questions.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to assist you take your theory test if there are any special requirements. You can request this by checking 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 practical test
If you are a holder of a UK provisional driving licence and wish to take a practical or theory test for a motorbike, car or bus/lorry, or both, in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. To prove this, you must submit a form of residency declaration to the DVA prior to booking your test. You can view the way in which any personal information you give to the DVA will be dealt with by reading their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window / tab).
The first step of the process is passing the test in theory. It is split into two parts, a multiple-choice section and a section on danger perception. Candidates must answer at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly to pass the test and receive an official certificate of passing. Candidates who pass the test are able to take their practical driving test.
The driving test can be conducted in a representative vehicle or in the candidate's personal. If a candidate uses their own vehicle, they need to ensure that it is roadworthy, carries their L-plates both front and rear and has insurance that is valid and the original NCT disc (if applicable). If the examiner finds any issues, such as lights or tyres not working, the test will be cancelled.
Once the practical driving test is passed, the applicant is issued a pass certificate that serves as temporary category B license for two years. This allows them to get full insurance and drive, as well as purchase vehicles before their permanent license arrives through the mail.
The driver must be accompanied by a fully certified driver who is over the age of 21 during the period of their two-year provisional license which they are able to keep for a maximum of two years. However, the driver can also take professional instruction with a licensed driving instructor and learn to drive on motorways which allows them to obtain a full license earlier than they would have otherwise been able to.
The driving test can be cancelled if the candidate gives at least three full working days in advance to cancel their appointment. If they fail to give the required time and do not give any refund.
The fee for the driving test
A driving licence is legally valid document that permits the holder to drive 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 NDLS (National Driving Licence Service).
When applying for a NI driving licence it is required to present some identification proof, such as an identity card or passport. UK birth certificate. Additionally, you will need to take a photo and sign the application form. Buy a Fake UK Licence are in place to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum requirements of driving in Northern Ireland are granted an license.
Candidates may be required to take an examination for medical reasons, based on their health and age. If you're unsure if you'll require medical records, the NDLS provides more details.
The NDLS also offers a variety of exemptions from these requirements. To be eligible for an exemption you must provide a medical certificate from your physician.
Once you have submitted the necessary documents, you can submit your application at an NDLS center. The documents you submit will be used by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also need to present digital signatures and a photograph taken. You will receive a duplicate of the photo which you can keep in your car to refer to if you are stopped by police.
You must provide an appropriate vehicle for your test. This vehicle must be roadworthy, have a valid NCT disc on the front and back and insurance cover, as well as original motor tax disks.
It is recommended that you make your appointment for your driving test in advance. There is a waiting list for some of the tests, so it is important to make your appointment as soon as possible. The NDLS offers a telephone booking system for those who don't want to travel to a testing center. You can reach the service via 028 902 4410. The cost for an Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for cars, motorcycles or mopeds; PS80 for taxis and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.