How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain may seem difficult, but it can be more straightforward than you think. Knowing the eligibility requirements, choosing the right insurer, and knowing unique advantages is key to success.
The licences issued in Northern Ireland are laminated plastic cards like European licenses, that show the bearer’s photo, their name (in Latin or Cyrillic) and their address at home 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 of the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can obtain a photocard driving licence anytime up to the day prior to their 17th birthday, however they cannot drive until their birthday. To get a full driver's license, a new driver must pass both a theory as well as a practical test.
You can apply online, or mail an application form to NDLS. It is essential to include a current passport-style photo when you submit your application. If you apply online it will take approximately a week to receive your new driving licence. If you apply via post it could take up three weeks.
NDLS provides a range of information and advice on its website for drivers, including guidelines and forms. You can download a report on your eyesight (DL3 form), medical fit-ness guidance and forms along with health and driving information leaflets. Applicants with epilepsy must complete an FEP1 form in order to inform NDLS of their condition.
You must always carry your driving license 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. It is not necessary to exchange your EU/EEA driving license if you're a border worker who frequently travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. This exemption is available when you are working on a temporary basis and return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
The driving agency will contact you about renewing your license when you reach the age of 70. This will happen about two months before the expiration of your current licence and then 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 existing photocard.
Licence holders who are not from the EEA or the UK will have to exchange their licenses in order 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 for hire or reward These codes are not transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The theory test is a multiple choice exam that has 50 questions on road markings and signs. The answers are displayed on the screen and you must select one of the options that best match the question. You can alter your answer at any point during the test. However, you must make sure that you select the correct option. You may receive an amount of points based on your answers. The online DVSA mock tests will 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. Buy C1 E License Online must bring both parts of your driving licence (photocard and the paper counterpart) to the test center, and be 15 minutes early.
Online application is the fastest and most convenient method to schedule your test. You can download the application form (pdf) either from the NDLS website or from an NDLS center. You can also contact the NDLS Customer Service team to make an appointment for tests by phone or post. If you want to reschedule or cancel your test, you must do so by 5 business days before your appointment date. You will lose the test fee if you do not.
You must bring a valid photo ID on the day of the test, for example an EU passport or a UK passport with an active NI address. You may also bring an electronic proof of identity like a bank statement or utility bill with your name and address printed on it.
It is advisable to make use of official RSA revision materials to improve your chances of passing the test. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription and books or borrow them from your local library. Take a look at the latest version of the RSA Theory Test Questions.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to help you pass your theory test if you have any special needs. This can be done by ticking the appropriate box on your application for the theory test form (pdf). You can also request an interpreter for sign language by calling the 0818 606106.
The test in the real world
If you have a UK provisional driving license and wish to take a practical or theory test for a motorcycle, car or bus/lorry, or both, in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. You must submit an DVA residency declaration form prior to booking your test to prove you are an resident of Northern Ireland. You can see how 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 in the process is passing the theory test. It is divided into two sections, a multiple-choice section and a section on danger perception. To pass the test, the candidate must answer correctly 43 out of 50 questions. 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 opts to use their vehicle, it must be roadworthy, have L-plates on the front and back, valid insurance, and the original NCT disk (if applicable). The test will be cancelled if the examiner finds any issues, including non-functioning lights and tyres.
After passing the driving test, the candidate receives a pass certificate which acts as a temporary Category B licence for two years. This permits them to obtain full insurance, drive and even buy an automobile before their permanent licence arrives in the post.
Buy C1 E License Online is only able to have a provisional license for two years. However, the applicant may also attend professional driving instruction with a licensed driving instructor and learn to drive on a motorway and will be able to get a full licence sooner than they would otherwise been allowed to.
The driving test is able to be cancelled if a candidate provides at least three working days in advance to cancel their appointment. If they fail to give the required notice and they are denied the right to a refund.
The fee for 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 managed by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. In Northern Ireland, it is issued by the National Driving Licence Service (NDLS).
You'll need to submit proof of identity to apply for a NI license. This could be a passport, or a UK Birth Certificate. You will also be required to sign and take a photograph of your application. These requirements are designed to ensure that only those who meet the minimum standards for driving in Northern Ireland are given a license.
Applicants may have to undergo a medical exam depending on their medical condition and age. The NDLS can provide more details in case you aren't sure if you will need an medical report.
The NDLS also offers a variety of exemptions from these requirements. To be eligible for an exemption, you will need to submit a medical note from your physician.
After you have submitted the required documents, you can make your application at an NDLS centre. The documents you submit will be scrutinized by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also need to have digital signatures and a photo taken. You will be given a the photocopy to keep in your car for reference in the event that you are stopped by the police.
You'll also be required to have access to a representative vehicle to take your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and have an original NCT disc on the front and back and insurance cover, as well as original motor tax disks.
It is recommended that you book your driving test well in advance. There is a waiting list for certain of the tests, therefore it is crucial to book your appointment as soon as you can. The NDLS offers a phone booking system for those who do not need to travel to a testing center. You can reach the service via 028 902 4410. The fee for a Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for cars, motorcycles or mopeds; PS80 for taxis and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.