How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain might seem challenging however it's more straightforward than you think. Understanding eligibility, unique benefits and choosing an appropriate insurer is the key to success.
The licences issued in Northern Ireland are laminated plastic cards similar to European licenses. They show the photo of the bearer and their name (in Latin or Cyrillic), their home address as well as the categories they are allowed to use and their signature.
How do I apply for a NI driving license
The NI driving license is composed of two parts: the plastic photocard, and the paper counterpart. A new driver can obtain a photocard licence up until the day before the day of his or her 17th birthday. However, they can't drive until the date of their birth. A new driver must pass a theory test as well as a practical driving test in order to obtain their full license.
You can apply online or send a form to NDLS. Include a passport-style photograph that is current when you submit your application. You will receive your new licence in around a week if apply online. If you apply via post it may take up to three weeks.
NDLS provides a range of information and tips on its website for drivers with their driving, including forms and guidelines. You can download an eye report (DL3 form), medical fitness guidance and forms, and health and driving information leaflets. Patients with epilepsy need to fill out an FEP1 form to advise NDLS of their condition.
You must always have your driving license inside the vehicle. Driving without a valid licence is illegal, and An Garda S could arrest you and charge you with a fine. ochana. You are not required to exchange your EU/EEA driving license if you're an employee of a border agency who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. This exemption is available if you are employed under a temporary contract and return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
The driving authority will notify you to renew 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 after that. When this call is not made, you should continue renewing your UK/NI license by using the DL1R renewal form and submitting it to NDLS along with your current photocard.
Licence holders who are not from the EEA or the UK must exchange their licences to move to Ireland. However, if there are 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 test for the theory is a multiple choice test which includes 50 questions about road signs and markings. The answers are displayed on the screen, and you have to tick one of the answers that best match the question. It is possible to alter your answer during the test but you must make sure that you select the correct answer before you submit your answers. Based on your answers, you could be awarded a certain number of points. On-line DVSA mock tests will allow you to practice for your theory exam. These are available on the DVSA website, and a few public libraries also stock these. Bring both your photocard and paper equivalent to the test center. You should arrive 15 minutes early.
Online applications are the quickest and most efficient method of scheduling your test. You can download the application form (pdf) or download it on the NDLS website or from an NDLS center. You can also call the NDLS customer service department to book your test on via phone or mail. If you want to reschedule or cancel your test you must notify us at least 5 business days prior to the time of your appointment. Otherwise, you will lose your test fee.
You must bring an acceptable photo ID on the day of your test, like an EU passport or an UK passport that has an NI address that is valid. You can also use electronic proof of identity, such a bank statement that has your name and your NI address.
To improve your chances of success, it is recommended that you make use of authentic RSA revision materials. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription and books or borrow them from the local library. Check 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 any special needs. This can be done by marking the appropriate box on your application for the theory test form (pdf). You can also request a sign language interpreter by phoning 0818 606106.
The practical test
If you are a holder of a UK provisional licence and want to take a car, motorbike or bus/lorry practical test in Northern Ireland, you will have to be a resident in the province. You must submit the DVA residency declaration form before taking your test to prove that you are an resident of Northern Ireland. You can find out the way in which any personal information 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 of the process is passing the test in theory. It is split into two parts, an multiple-choice section as well as a section on hazard perception. To pass the test, the applicant must be able to answer correctly 43 of the 50 questions. Candidates who pass the test are able to take their practical driving test.
The driving test can be conducted in a vehicle used by a representative or in the candidate's personal. If a candidate decides to take their own vehicle, it must be roadworthy, have L-plates on their front and back, have valid insurance and the original NCT disk (if applicable). The test is annulled if the examiner detects any flaws, such as malfunctioning lights and tyres.
When the test for practical driving is passed, the driver receives a certificate of pass which serves as a temporary category B licence for two years. This allows them to get full insurance, drive and even buy a vehicle before their permanent licence arrives through the mail.
The driver is only able to hold a provisional licence for two years. However, the applicant can also take professional lessons with a certified driving instructor and be trained to drive on a motorway, which will allow them to gain a full licence sooner than they would have otherwise been permitted to.
The driving test could be cancelled by the applicant who cancels at least three working days in advance. If they fail to provide the required time, they will not receive a refund.
The cost for the driving test is $120.
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).
If you are applying for a NI driving license it is required to present some proof of identity such as a passport or a UK birth certificate. Additionally, you will need to take a photograph 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 can be granted an license.
The applicants may be required to undergo a medical exam in accordance with their medical health and age. If you're not sure if you'll require medical records or not, the NDLS has more information.
The NDLS provides a number exemptions to these requirements. To apply for an exemption you must submit the completed medical report of your doctor.
After you have submitted all of the necessary documents, you can go to an NDLS center to submit your application in person. Buy C1 E License Online will use your documents to verify your identity. You are required to get your photograph taken and signed digitally. You will be provided with a copy of the photo which you can keep in your car to refer to if you are arrested by police.
You will need to provide an appropriate vehicle to conduct your test. This vehicle must be roadworthy, have a valid NCT disc on the front and back and insurance cover, as well as original motor tax disks.
The scheduling of your driving test in advance is highly advised. There is an application waiting list for some of the tests, therefore it is crucial to book your appointment as soon as possible. The NDLS also provides a telephone reservation service, which could be helpful for those who do not want to travel long distances to an testing center. Contact the service at 028 902 4410. The fee for a driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for moped, car or motorcycle Taxis are priced at PS80; and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.