How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
It might seem difficult to get insurance for your car in Britain for Northern Ireland drivers, but it's actually much simpler than you might think. Understanding eligibility, choosing the right insurer and understanding specific advantages is the key to success.
The licences issued in Northern Ireland are laminated plastic cards, similar to European licenses, that show the bearer’s photo and their name (in Latin or Cyrillic), their home address, the categories that are permitted and signature.
How do you apply for a driving license
A NI driving licence is made up of two parts, the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver may obtain a photocard license up to the day before his or her 17th birthday. However, they are not able to drive till their date of birth. To get a full driving licence, a driver who is new must pass both a theory and practical test.
You can apply online or mail an application form to NDLS. Include a passport-style picture that is current when you submit your application. If you submit your application online, it should take about a week to receive your new driving licence. If you send in your application by post, it could take up to 3 weeks.
NDLS offers a variety of information and advice on its website to help drivers with forms and guidelines. You can download an eyesight report (DL3 form), medical fitness guidance and forms, health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers must fill out an FEP1 form in order to inform NDLS of their condition.
It is a legal requirement to carry your driving licence at all times you are driving. Driving without a valid licence is illegal. An Garda S could arrest you and fine you. ochana. You may not have to exchange your EU/EEA driver's license if you're a border worker who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. The exemption applies when you are working under a temporary contract and then return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
The driving department will contact you about renewing your license when you reach 70. This will happen approximately two months before the expiration date of your current licence and then every three years after that. Until you receive this contact you should continue to renew your UK/NI licence using the DL1R application for renewal form. Then, send it to NDLS with your existing photocard and the paper counterpart.
License holders from countries outside the EEA and the UK must change their licences when they relocate to the Republic of Ireland. If you have codes on your UK/NI driving licence that identify a minibus trailer, minibus, or minibus (category d1 and d1e) or that indicate it is not for reward or hire the codes can't be transferred to an Irish licence.
The theory test
The test for the theory is a multiple choice exam that includes 50 questions about road signs and markings. The answers are displayed on the screen, and you must select one of the answers that is most appropriate to the question. You can alter your answer during the test, but you must be sure to select the correct option before you submit your answers. You may receive an amount of points based on your answers. On-line DVSA mock tests allow you to practice your theory exam. They are available on the DVSA website, and some public libraries also stock them. Bring both your photocard and paper equivalent to the test center. You should arrive 15 minutes earlier.
The quickest and easiest method to book your test is to apply online. You can download the application form (pdf), either on the NDLS website or from an NDLS center. You can contact the NDLS Customer Service team to schedule tests via phone or mail. You must cancel or reschedule your test at least five days prior to the time of the test. You'll lose the fee for the test if you don't.
You'll need an acceptable photo ID on the day of your test, such as an EU passport or a UK passport with an NI address that is valid. You may also present electronic proof of identity, like a bank statement that includes your name and the NI address.
To increase your chances of success, it is recommended that you use authentic RSA revision materials. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription as well as books or borrow them from your local library. Also, make sure to take a look at the most current edition of the RSA theory test questions.
If you have any specific requirements, you can ask for an interpreter or helper to take your test. You can do this by completing the appropriate box on the application for the theory test form. You can also request a sign language interpreter by calling the 0818 606106.
The test in the real world
If you hold a UK provisional licence and wish 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 before booking your test. You can view how any personal information that 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 in the process is passing the test in theory. It is divided into two sections: one with multiple-choice questions and the other section on danger perception. Highly recommended Reading must answer at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly in order to pass the test and get an official certificate of passing. Those who pass the test are allowed to book their practical driving test.
The driving test can be taken in a representative vehicle or the candidate's own. If a candidate uses their own vehicle, they need to ensure that it is roadworthy, has their L-plates on the front and back, has valid insurance and the original NCT disc (if applicable). If the examiner finds any defects, such as lights or tyres not functioning the test will be canceled.
When the test for practical driving is passed, the driver receives a pass certificate that acts as a temporary category B licence for two years. This allows them to drive, purchase full car insurance, and even buy a car before they receive their permanent license in the mail.
The driver is only able to hold a provisional licence for two years. The applicant can attend professional driving lessons with a licensed instructor and learn how to drive on motorways. This will allow them to obtain an official license earlier than they otherwise would have been allowed.
The driving test is able to be cancelled if a candidate gives at least three full working days' notice to cancel their appointment. If they fail to give the required time and do not give any refund.
The cost of the driving test
A driving licence is an official document that permits the holder to drive a motor vehicle 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 will need to submit an identification document when applying for a NI licence. This could be a passport, or a UK Birth Certificate. You'll also have to take a photo and sign your application. These requirements are designed to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum standards of driving in Northern Ireland are granted an license.
Applicants may have to undergo a medical examination, depending on their medical condition and age. If you're not sure if you will require a medical report, the NDLS provides more details.
The NDLS provides a number exemptions to these requirements. To apply for an exception you must provide a medical certificate from your physician.
Once you've completed all the required documents, you can visit an NDLS centre to complete your application in person. The documents you submit will be scrutinized by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also need to present a digital signature and your photograph taken. You will receive a copy of the photo which you can keep in your vehicle to refer to if you are stopped by the police.
You must provide a representative vehicle to use to conduct your test. This vehicle must be roadworthy and have an active NCT disc on the front and back, insurance cover, and original motor tax discs.
It is recommended that you make your appointment for 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 possible. The NDLS also offers a telephone booking service that can be useful for those who don't wish to travel long distances to a testing centre. Contact the service at 028 902 4410. The cost for a Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for cars, motorcycles or mopeds PS80 for taxis, and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.