How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
It might seem difficult to obtain insurance for cars in Britain for Northern Ireland drivers, but it's actually a lot easier than you think. Knowing the eligibility requirements, choosing the right insurer and understanding specific advantages is the key to success.
The licenses issued in Northern Ireland are plastic laminated cards like European licenses. They show the photo of the bearer as well as their name (in Latin or Cyrillic) and their address at home as well as the categories they are allowed to use and their signature.
How to apply for an NI driving license
The NI driving license is composed of two parts of the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver may obtain an image card licence until the day prior to their 17th birthday. However, they are not able to drive till their date of birth. A new driver must pass a theory test and practical driving test to get their full license.
You can apply online or by sending a form to NDLS. It is essential to include a current passport-style photo with your application. You should receive your new licence in about a week if you apply online. If you submit your application by mail it could take up three weeks.
NDLS provides a range of information, tips and forms on its website for drivers. You can download a report on your eyesight (DL3 form), medical fit-ness guidance and forms along with health and driving information leaflets. Applicants with epilepsy are required to fill out the FEP1 questionnaire in order to inform NDLS about their condition.
It is mandatory to carry your driving license in the vehicle. 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 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 when you are working on a temporary basis and return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
The driving agency will contact you about renewing your license at the time you reach the age of 70. This will occur approximately two months before the expiration of your current license, and every three years thereafter. 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 who are not from the EEA or the UK will need to change their licences to move to Ireland. However, if you have categories on your UK/NI licence that indicate a minibus or bus with trailer (category D1 and D1E) or a code that indicates that it's not for hire or reward, these codes are not transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The test for theory comprises 50 questions pertaining to road signs and markings. The answers are displayed on the screen and you must select one of the answers that best match the question. It is possible to change your answer during the test however, you must ensure to select the correct option before you submit your answers. Depending on your answers, you may be awarded a certain amount of points. The online DVSA mock tests will allow you to practice your theory test. They are available on the website of the DVSA, and some libraries in public have them as well. Bring your photocard and paper equivalent to the test center. You should arrive 15 minutes early.
The most efficient and quickest method to book your test is to apply online. You can download the application form (pdf), either via the NDLS site or from an NDLS center. You can also contact the NDLS Customer Service team to schedule tests via phone or mail. You must cancel or change the date of your test at least five days prior to the date of your appointment. You will lose the fee for the test if don't.
On the day of the test, you'll require an ID with a valid photo. This can be an EU passport or a UK passport with a address in the NI. You may also bring an electronic identity proof, such as an account statement from a bank or a utility bill that includes your name and address on it.
To increase your chances of success, it is advised to utilize the official RSA revision materials. 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.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to help you take your theory test if you have special requirements. This is done by checking the appropriate box on your application for the theory test form (pdf). You can also request an Irish Sign Language interpreter by calling 0818 606 106.
The practical test
If you hold a UK provisional driving license and want to take a practical or theory test for a motorbike, car or bus/lorry in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. To prove this, you have to submit a form of residency declaration to the DVA prior to booking your test. Visit the DVA's privacy notice to learn how they deal with any personal information you send them.
The first step is passing the theory test, which is administered in two parts, an multiple choice section as well as an hazard perception section. Buy A1 and A2 Motocycle Licence Online must answer at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly to pass the test and get 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 chooses to use their own vehicle, they must ensure that it is roadworthy, has their L-plates on the front and back and has insurance that is valid and the original NCT disc (if applicable). If the examiner discovers any defects, such as lights or tyres that are not functioning, the test will be canceled.
After passing the practical driving test, the candidate receives the pass certificate, which serves as an interim Category B licence for a period of 2 years. This permits the driver to drive, obtain full car insurance, and even purchase a vehicle before their permanent licence arrives in the mail.
The driver must be accompanied by a fully qualified driver over the age of 21 for the duration of their two year provisional licence, which they can only keep for a maximum of two years. However, the driver may also attend professional driving lessons with a certified driving instructor and be trained to drive on motorways, which will allow them to gain a full licence sooner than they would otherwise been allowed to.
relevant resource site driving test is able to be cancelled if a candidate provides at least three working days of notice to cancel their appointment. If they fail to provide the required notice, they will not receive any refund.
The fee for the driving test is $120.
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 license, you will need to provide proof of identity such as an identity card or passport. UK birth certificate. You'll also have to take a picture and sign your application form. These requirements are designed to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum requirements of driving in Northern Ireland can be granted a license.
Applicants may have to undergo a medical test depending on their medical condition and age. The NDLS can provide more details if you are unsure if you will need medical reports.
The NDLS also provides a variety of exemptions from these requirements. In order to apply for an exemption you must submit a medical note from your physician.
Once you have submitted the necessary documents, you can apply at an NDLS centre. The documents you submit will be used by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also have to provide an electronic signature and a photo taken. You will receive a copy of the photo that you can keep in your car for reference, if you're stopped by police.
You will be required to provide an appropriate vehicle for your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and possess a valid NCT disc front and rear, insurance coverage and original motor tax discs.
It is advised to schedule your driving test in advance. There is a waiting list for certain of the tests, therefore it is crucial to book your appointment as soon as you can. The NDLS also provides a phone booking service, which can be beneficial for those who don't wish to travel long distances to an testing center. This service can be contacted at 028 902 0410. The cost for the Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for motorbikes, cars or mopeds; PS80 for taxis and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.