How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
It can be difficult to get car insurance in Britain for Northern Ireland drivers, but it is actually much easier than you might think. Understanding eligibility, choosing the right insurer and understanding unique advantages is key to success.
The licenses issued in Northern Ireland are laminated plastic cards similar to European licenses, that show the photo of the bearer and their name (in Latin or Cyrillic), their home address, categories allowed and signature.
How do I apply for a driving license
A NI driving license is composed of two components, the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can apply for the photocard driving license at any time until the day prior to their 17th birthday, but they are not able to drive until the birthday. To get a full driver's license, a new driver must pass both a theory and practical test.
You can submit an application online or send a form to NDLS. Include a passport-style photo that is current when you submit your application. You will receive your new licence in around a week if apply online. If you submit your application via mail, it could take up to 3 weeks.
NDLS provides a range of information and guidance on its website to help drivers with their driving, including forms and guidelines. You can download an eyesight report (DL3 form) along with medical fitness guidance and forms, as well as health and driving information leaflets. Applicants with epilepsy must complete an FEP1 form to inform NDLS of their condition.
You must always carry your driving license inside the vehicle. Driving without a valid driving licence is illegal and could result in an arrest and fine from An Garda S ochana. You may not have to exchange your EU/EEA driver's license if you are a border worker who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. This exemption is available if you are employed on a temporary contract and return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
If you're over 70, you will be contacted about renewing your license by the driving agency approximately two months prior to when your current licence expires. It will be renewed every three years from that point on. Until you receive this contact you must renew your UK/NI licence by applying for DL1R on the renewal form, and submit it to NDLS with your current photocard and the paper counterpart.
Licence holders from countries outside the EEA and the UK must change their licences when they relocate to the Republic of Ireland. If, however, you have categories on your UK/NI licence indicating a bus or minibus with a trailer (category D1 and D1E) or a code that indicates that it is not for hire or reward, these codes are not transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The theory test consists of 50 questions pertaining to road signs and markings. Answers are displayed on the screen and you have to select the option that best matches the question. You can change your answer at any time during the test. However you must ensure that you choose the correct answer. You could earn an amount of points based on your answers. The online DVSA mock tests allow you to practice for your theory test. They are available on the DVSA's website and some libraries in public have them as well. You must bring both parts of your driving licence (photocard and paper counterpart) to the test center, and be 15 minutes early.
The fastest and most convenient method of booking your theory test is to apply online. You can download the application form (pdf) or download it from the NDLS site or from an NDLS center. You can also call the NDLS customer service to book your test on the phone or via post. You must cancel or change the date of your test at least five days prior to the date of your appointment. Otherwise, you'll lose the test fee.
Buy C1 E License Online 'll need an acceptable photo ID on the day of your test, such as an EU passport or an UK passport with a valid NI address. You can also bring electronic proof of identity, such a bank statement that has your name and NI address.
To increase your chances of success, it is recommended that you utilize official RSA revision materials. You can buy the learning portal subscription, books, and CD-ROMs from the RSA website, or you can borrow the materials from your local library. You should also look up the most recent edition of the RSA theory test questions.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to help you take your theory test if you have special needs. You can request this by checking the appropriate box on the theory test application form. You can also request an interpreter who speaks sign language by calling 0818-606106.
The practical test
If you have a UK provisional driving licence and are looking to take a theory or practical test for a car, motorcycle or bus/lorry, or both, in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. You will need to fill out a DVA residency declaration form prior to taking your test to prove you are a resident of Northern Irish. You can see the way in which any personal information you send to the DVA will be handled by visiting their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window/ tab).
The first step of the process is to pass the theory test. It is divided into two sections: one with multiple-choice questions and the other section on the perception of hazards. Candidates must complete at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly in order to pass the test and receive a pass certificate. Passing candidates will be able to book their practical driving test.
The driving test can be taken in a representative vehicle or the candidate's own. If a candidate chooses to use their own vehicle, they should ensure that it is roadworthy, carries their L-plates front and rear and has insurance that is valid and the original NCT disc (if applicable). The test can be annulled if the examiner detects any defects such as non-functioning lights and tyres.
After passing the test for practical driving, the candidate receives an award certificate that acts as a temporary Category B license for a period of 2 years. This allows the driver to drive, obtain full car insurance and even purchase a car before their permanent license arrives in the mail.
The driver must be accompanied by a certified driver who is over the age of 21 for the duration of their two-year provisional license which they are able to keep for a maximum of two years. The applicant is able to take professional driving lessons with a certified instructor and learn how to drive on motorways. This will enable them to obtain a full licence sooner than they would otherwise have been able to.
The driving test can be cancelled if the candidate gives at least three full working days of notice to cancel their appointment. If they do not give the required time and do not give a refund.
The driving test fee
A driving license is a legal document which allows the holder to operate an automobile on public roads. In the United Kingdom this document is administered by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. In Northern Ireland, it is issued by the National Driving Licence Service (NDLS).
You will need to submit a form of identification to apply for a NI license. This could be a passport or a UK Birth Certificate. You will also need to sign and take a photo of your application. These requirements are designed to ensure that only those who meet the minimum requirements for driving in Northern Ireland are issued a license.
Candidates may need to undergo a medical test depending on their medical health and age. The NDLS can provide more information if you are unsure whether you'll require medical reports.
The NDLS also offers a variety of exemptions from these requirements. In order to apply for an exemption, you will need to submit a medical note from your doctor.
Once you have submitted the required documents, you are able to make your application at an NDLS centre. The NDLS will use your documents to verify your identity. You are required to get your photograph taken and signed digitally. You will receive an image copy to keep in your vehicle for reference if you are stopped by the police.
You must provide an appropriate vehicle for your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and have an active NCT disc for the front and rear as well as an insurance policy. original motor tax disks.
Booking your driving test in advance is highly recommended. There is a waiting list for some of the tests, therefore it is crucial to book your appointment as soon as possible. The NDLS provides a booking phone system for those who don't want to travel to a testing center. You can contact this service at 028 902 4410. The fee for the driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for moped, car or motorcycle Taxis are priced at PS80; and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.