How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain might seem challenging, but it can be more straightforward than you think. Understanding eligibility, unique benefits and deciding on the right insurer is the key to success.
Licenses issued in the United States are laminated plastic cards similar to European licences. They show the bearer's photo and name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts), home address, categories of use and signature.
How do I apply for a NI driving license
The NI driving license is composed of two parts that are the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can apply for an electronic driving licence with a photocard at any time until the day prior to their 17th birthday, however they cannot drive until their birth date. A new driver must pass a theory test and practical driving test in order to obtain their full licence.
You can submit your application online or send an application form to NDLS. Include a passport-style picture that is current when you submit your application. You will receive your new licence in approximately a week if you apply online. If you apply via post it may take up to three weeks.
NDLS offers a variety of information, advice and forms on its website for drivers. You can download an eyesight report (DL3 form), medical fitness guidance and forms, as well as health and driving information leaflets. Applicants with epilepsy must complete an FEP1 form to advise NDLS of their condition.
You must always carry your driving licence 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. If you're a frontier worker and regularly travel between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to work, you could be exempt from having to exchange your EUor EEA driving licence. The exemption 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 about renewing your license by the driving department about two months prior to when your current one expires, and then every three years from that point on. Until this contact is received it is recommended that you continue renewing your UK/NI license by using the DL1R renewal application form and sending it to NDLS together with your current photocard.
Licence holders from countries that are not part of the EEA and the UK must change their licences when they relocate to the Republic of Ireland. If, however, you have categories on your UK/NI licence indicating a bus or minibus with trailer (category D1 and D1E) or a code indicating that it's not for hire or reward, these codes are not transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The theory test consists of 50 questions about markings and road signs. Answers are displayed on the screen, and you must select the option that best matches the question. It is possible to alter your answer during the test but you must make sure to select the correct option before you submit your answers. You could be awarded a certain number points based on the answers you provide. You can take a test on your theory using the online DVSA mock tests. They are available on the DVSA website, and a few public libraries also stock them. Bring your photocard as well as 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. You can download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or get the form from an NDLS centre. You can also call the NDLS customer service team to book your test over the phone or via post. If you want to reschedule or cancel your test, you must do so by 5 business days before your appointment date. If you don't, you'll forfeit your test fee.
On the day of the test, you'll require an ID with a valid photo. It could be an EU passport or UK passport with an address for NI. Buy a Fake UK Licence can also use electronic proof of identity, such a bank statement with your name and the NI address.
It is advisable to make use of official RSA revision materials to increase your chances of passing the test. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription and books or take them out of the local library. It is also recommended to check the latest edition of the RSA theory test questions.
If you have any particular needs, you can request an interpreter or a person to help you take your test. You can do 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 test in the real world
If you are a holder of a UK provisional licence and want to take a car, motorbike or bus/lorry theory or practical test in Northern Ireland, you will need to be normally resident in the province. To prove this, you must submit a residency declaration form to the DVA prior to booking your test. You can see how any personal information you give to the DVA will be handled by going to their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window or tab).
The first step is passing the theory test, which is conducted in two parts: the multiple choice section and a hazard perception section. The test taker 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 can take their practical driving test.
The driving test may be conducted in a car used by a representative or in the candidate's car. If a candidate decides to take their vehicle, it must be roadworthy, have L-plates on the front and back, have valid insurance, and the original NCT disk (if applicable). If the examiner detects problems, like lights or tyres that are not working, the test will be canceled.
Once the practical driving test is passed, the candidate receives a certificate of pass which serves as temporary category B license for two years. This permits them to drive, purchase full insurance for their car and purchase a car before their permanent licence arrives in the mail.
The driver must be accompanied by a certified driver who is over the age of 21 for the duration of their two-year provisional license that they can hold for a maximum of two years. However, the candidate can also take professional instruction with a licensed driving instructor and be certified to drive on motorways, which will allow them to get a full licence sooner than they would otherwise been allowed to.
The driving test can be cancelled by the applicant if they cancel at least three working days in advance. If they fail to give the required notice, they will be denied any refund.
The cost for the driving test
A driving licence is legally valid 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 NDLS (National Driving Licence Service).
If you are applying for a NI driving license, you will need to present some evidence of your identity, such as a passport or a UK birth certificate. You will also need to take a photograph and sign your application form. These rules are in place to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum requirements of driving in Northern Ireland are granted a license.
Applicants may have to undergo a medical test depending on their medical condition and age. The NDLS can provide more details on the subject if you're not sure if you will need medical reports.
The NDLS also provides a number of exemptions from these requirements. However, to apply for an exemption, you must submit the completed medical report of your doctor.
After you have completed all the required documents, you can visit an NDLS centre to complete your application in person. The NDLS will use your documentation to verify your identity, and you will be required to have your photo taken and endorsed digitally. You will be provided with a copy of the photo that you can keep in your car for reference, if you're arrested by police.
You must provide an appropriate vehicle to conduct your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and include a valid NCT disc front and rear, an insurance cover and original motor tax discs.
It is advised to make your appointment for your driving test in advance. It is crucial to make your test reservations as soon as you can. There are waiting lists for certain tests. The NDLS offers a telephone booking system for those who do not want to travel to a testing facility. This service can be contacted at 028 902 0410. The fee for an Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for cars, motorcycles and mopeds PS80 for taxis, and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.
