How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain might seem challenging however it's much simpler than you think. Knowing the eligibility requirements, choosing the right insurer, and knowing specific advantages is the key to success.
The licences issued in Northern Ireland are plastic laminated cards similar to European licenses. They show the photo of the bearer and their name (in Latin or Cyrillic) as well as their address of residence, the categories that are permitted and signature.
How to apply for a driving license
The NI driving licence is made up of two parts of the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can get an electronic driving licence with a photocard at any time up to the day prior to their 17th birthday, but they are not allowed to drive until their birth date. A new driver must pass a theory test and practical driving test to get their full licence.
You can apply online or send an application form to NDLS. It is essential to include a current passport-style photo along with your application. If you apply online, it should take about one week to get your new driving license. If you submit your application by post, it could take up to 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, as well as health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers must fill out an FEP1 form to advise NDLS of their condition.
It is legally required to carry your driver's licence at all times when you are 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 and regularly travel between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to work, you could be exempt from having exchange your EU/ EEA driving licence. If you are working on a temporary employment contract and plan to return to your home country during the term of your contract, then you may not be required to exchange your driving license.
The driving department will contact you regarding renewing your licence when you reach the age of 70. This will occur approximately two months before the expiration date of your current license, and every three years after that. If you don't receive this notification, you must continue to renew your UK/NI licence by applying for DL1R on the renewal form. You should then send it to NDLS along with your current photocard and the paper counterpart.
Licence holders from countries outside the EEA and the UK must exchange their licences when they move to the Republic of Ireland. However, if you have categories on your UK/NI licence which indicate a minibus or a bus with trailer (category D1 and D1E) or a code indicating that it is not intended for hire or reward, these codes are not transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The theory test is a multiple-choice test which includes 50 questions about road markings and signs. Answers are displayed on screen, and you must select the answer that best fits 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. You may receive some 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's website, and some public libraries have them as well. Bring your photocard as well as paper equivalent to the test center. You should arrive 15 minutes earlier.
Online application is the quickest and most efficient method of scheduling your test. You can download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or request the form from an NDLS centre. You can also contact the NDLS Customer Service team to make an appointment for a test by phone or post. If you wish to change or cancel your test you must notify us at least 5 business days prior to the date of your appointment. You'll forfeit the test fee if you do not.
On the day of the test, you will need an ID with a valid photo. This can be an EU passport or a UK passport with an NI address. You can also use an electronic identity proof, such as a bank statement or utility bill that includes your name and address printed on it.
To improve your chances of success, it is advised to utilize authentic RSA revision material. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription as well as books or take them out of the local library. Take Buy C1 E License Online at the latest version 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 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 hold a UK provisional driving license and want to take a practical or theory test for a motorcycle, car, bus/lorry or both in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. To prove this, you need to submit a residency declaration form to the DVA before booking your test. The DVA's privacy policy to learn how they handle any personal information that you provide them with.
The first step of the process is passing the theory test. It is split into two parts, a multiple-choice section and a section on hazard perception. Candidates must be able to answer at least 43 out of the 50 questions correctly in order to pass the test and get an official certificate of passing. The candidates who pass the test are allowed to take the practical driving test.
The driving test can be conducted in a vehicle used by a representative or the candidate's own. If a candidate uses their own vehicle, they need to ensure that it is roadworthy, that it 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 discovers any defects such as non-functioning lights and tyres.
After the practical driving test is passed, the applicant is issued a pass certificate which serves as a temporary category B licence for two years. This allows them to drive, get full car insurance and even purchase a vehicle before their permanent license arrives in the mail.
The driver is allowed to only hold a provisional licence for two years. The applicant is able to take professional driving lessons with a certified instructor and learn how to drive on motorways. This will allow them to obtain a full licence sooner than they otherwise would have been allowed.
The driving test can be cancelled by the applicant in the event that they cancel at least three days in advance. If they fail to give the required notice or notice, they will not be able to claim a refund.
The fee for the driving test
A driving licence is a legal document that allows 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 the National Driving Licence Service (NDLS).
You'll need to provide a form of identification when applying for an NI license. This could be a passport, or a UK Birth Certificate. Additionally, you will need to take a picture and sign your application form. These rules are in place to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum standards of driving in Northern Ireland are given an license.
The applicants may be required to undergo a medical examination, depending on their age and medical condition. If you are unsure whether you will require medical reports, the NDLS has more information.
The NDLS offers a variety of exemptions to these requirements. To apply for an exception, you will need to submit a medical note from your physician.
Once you have submitted the necessary documents, you can make your application at an NDLS centre. The documents you submit will be used by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also need to present a digital signature and your photo taken. You will be provided with an image copy to keep in your car to refer to if you're stopped by the police.
You will also be required to have access to a representative vehicle for your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy, have an active front and rear NCT disc, insurance cover, and original motor tax discs.
Booking your driving test in advance is highly advised. It is important to book your test as soon as you can. There are waiting lists for certain tests. The NDLS also provides a telephone booking service that can be useful for those who don't want to travel long distances to an testing center. You can contact this service at 028 902 4410. The cost for a Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for motorbikes, cars or mopeds PS80 for taxis, and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.