How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain may seem daunting however it's more straightforward than you think. Understanding eligibility, the unique benefits and deciding on the right insurer is the most important factor to success.
Licences issued in NI are laminated plastic cards that are similar to European licences and show the bearer's picture as well as their name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts) and home address, categories of use and signature.
How do I apply for a NI driving license
The 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 prior to their 17th birthday. However, they can't drive until the date of birth. A new driver must pass a theory test and practical driving test to earn their full license.
You can apply online or mail an application form to NDLS. It is essential to include a current passport-style photo with your application. If Buy UK driving licence online submit your application online, it will take approximately one week to receive your new driving license. If you submit your application via mail it could take up to three weeks.
NDLS provides a range of information, tips and forms on its website for drivers. You can download an eye report (DL3 form), medical fitness guidance and forms, health and driving information leaflets. Applicants with epilepsy must complete an FEP1 form in order to inform 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 driving licence is illegal and could result in an arrest and a 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 exchange your EU/ EEA driving licence. If you are enrolled in an employment contract for temporary duration and are planning to return to your home country during the term of your contract, then you will not need to exchange your driving licence.
When you reach the age of 70, you will be contacted about renewing your license by the driving agency approximately two months before the date your current one expires, and then every three years from then on. Until you receive this contact you must continue to renew your UK/NI licence by using the DL1R application for renewal form, and submit it to NDLS along with your current photocard and the paper counterpart.
Licence holders who are not from the EEA or the UK will have to exchange their licenses in order to move to Ireland. If, however, you have categories on your UK/NI licence that indicate a minibus or bus with a 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 that has 50 questions on road signs and markings. Answers are displayed on the screen, and you must select the answer that best fits the question. You are able to change your answer at any time during the test. However, you must make sure that you choose the correct answer. Depending on your answers, you may be awarded a certain number of points. Online DVSA mock test will allow you to practice your theory test. You can find them on the DVSA's website, and some public libraries have them as well. You are required to bring both the paper and photocopies of your driving licence (photocard and the paper counterpart) to the theory test centre, and you should be 15 minutes early.
The most efficient and quickest way to book your test is to apply online. You can also download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or pick up the form from an NDLS centre. You can also contact the NDLS Customer Service team to book tests by phone or post. If you want to reschedule or cancel your test, you must do so within 5 business days prior to the time of your appointment. You'll lose the test fee if you do not.
You will need to bring a valid photo ID on the day of your test, like an EU passport or a UK passport with a valid NI address. You can also use electronic proof of identity, such as a bank statement that has your name and the NI address.
It is recommended to make use of official RSA revision materials to improve your chances of passing the test. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription as well as books or borrow them from the local library. You should also check the latest edition of the RSA theory test questions.
If you have any special requirements, you can request an interpreter or helper to take your test. This can be done by ticking the appropriate box on your theory test application form (pdf). 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 wish to take a theory or a practical test for a motorcycle, 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 before you can book your test. Visit the DVA's privacy notice to learn how they deal with any personal information you send them.
The first step of the process is to pass the test in theory. It is divided into two parts, an multiple-choice section as well as a section on the perception of hazards. The candidate must answer at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly in order to pass the test and receive an official certificate of passing. Candidates who pass the test will be able to book their practical driving test.
The driving test could be conducted in a vehicle that is representative or in the candidate's car. If a candidate opts to use their own vehicle, it should be roadworthy, have their L-plates on the back and front, valid insurance and the original NCT disk (if applicable). The test is cancelled if the examiner discovers any flaws, such as malfunctioning lights and tyres.
Once the practical driving test is passed, the driver is issued a pass certificate that serves as temporary category B license for two years. This permits them to drive, purchase full car insurance, and even purchase a vehicle before their permanent license arrives in the mail.
The driver can only have a provisional license for two years. However, the applicant can also undergo professional driving lessons with a certified driving instructor and learn to drive on motorways and will be able to obtain a full license earlier than they would have otherwise been allowed to.
The driving test can be canceled by the applicant in the event that they cancel at least three days in advance. If they do not give the required notice and they are denied a refund.
The driving test fee
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 managed by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. In Northern Ireland it is issued by NDLS (National Driving Licence Service).
You will need to submit an identification document to apply for a NI license. This could be a passport, or a UK Birth Certificate. You'll also have to take a photo and sign the application form. These requirements are designed to ensure that only those who meet the minimum standards for driving in Northern Ireland are issued a license.
Candidates may need to undergo a medical examination, depending on their medical condition and age. The NDLS can provide additional information if you are unsure if you will need an medical report.
The NDLS offers a variety of exemptions to these requirements. To apply for Buy European driving license Uk online must provide a medical certificate from your doctor.
After you have submitted the necessary documents, you can submit your application at an NDLS centre. The documents you submit will be used by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also have to have a digital signature and your photograph taken. You will receive a duplicate of the photo that you can keep in your car to use as a reference if you're stopped by police.
You must provide an example vehicle to conduct your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and have a valid front and rear NCT disc and insurance cover, as well as original motor tax discs.
Making your driving test reservations in advance is highly recommended. There is an application waiting list for some of the tests, therefore it is essential to schedule your appointment as soon as you can. The NDLS also offers a telephone booking service, which can be useful for those who don't wish to travel long distances to an testing center. This service is available by calling 028 902 0410. The cost for the Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for cars, motorcycles and mopeds PS80 for taxis, and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.