How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain may seem daunting, but it can be a lot easier than you think. Understanding eligibility, unique advantages and selecting the right insurance is the most important factor to success.
The licences issued in Northern Ireland are laminated plastic cards like European licenses. They show the photo of the bearer, their name (in Latin or Cyrillic) as well as their address of residence, categories allowed and signature.
How do I apply for a NI driving license
A NI driving licence consists of two parts, the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A driver who is new can get a photocard license up to the day prior to their 17th birthday. However, they can't drive until the date of birth. To get a full driver's licence, a driver who is new 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-type photo with your application. You will get your new license in around a week if apply online. If you submit your application by mail it could take up three weeks.
Buy C1 E License Online offers a variety of information, advice and forms on its website for drivers. You can download a report about your eyesight (DL3 form), medical fit-ness guidance and forms and health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers are required to fill out the FEP1 form in order to inform NDLS about their condition.
It is a legal requirement to carry your driving license at all times when you are in your vehicle. Driving without a valid licence is illegal, and An Garda S could arrest you and penalize you. ochana. You may not have to exchange your EU/EEA driver's license if you are a border worker who frequently travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. If you are enrolled in an employment contract for temporary duration and will be returning to your home country for the duration of the contract, then you might not be required to exchange your driving licence.
The driving agency will contact you to renew your license at the time you reach the age of 70. This will happen about two months before the expiration of your current license, and every three years thereafter. When this call is not made, you should continue renewing your UK/NI license by using the DL1R renewal form and sending it to NDLS along with your existing photocard.
Licence holders who are from outside the EEA and the UK have to 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 that indicates that it's not for hire or reward the codes aren't transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The test for theory comprises 50 questions pertaining to road signs and markings. Answers are displayed on screen and you must choose the option that best matches the question. You can alter your answer during the test but you must be sure that you select the correct answer before you submit your answers. Depending on your answers, you may be awarded a certain amount of points. You can take a test on your theory using the online DVSA mock tests. These are available on the DVSA website, and some public libraries also stock these. Bring both your photocard and paper equivalent to the theory test center. You should arrive 15 minutes earlier.
Online applications are the quickest and easiest way to schedule your test. You can also download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or get the form from an NDLS centre. You can also contact the NDLS customer service department to book your test on the phone or by post. You must cancel or reschedule your test at least 5 days before the date of your appointment. You'll forfeit the test fee if you don't.
On the day of the test, you will need a valid photo ID. This could be an EU passport or a UK passport with an NI address. You can also use an electronic identity proof like the bank statement or a utility bill that includes your name and address on it.
It is advisable to use official RSA revision materials to increase your chances of passing the test. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription and books or borrow them from your local library. You can download the most recent version of the RSA Theory Test Questions.
If you have any specific requirements, you can request an interpreter or a helper to take your theory test. This can be done by marking the appropriate box on your application for the theory test form (pdf). You can also request an Irish Sign Language interpreter by calling 0818 606 106.
The practical test
If you are a holder of a UK provisional driving license and are looking to take a theory or a practical test for a motorbike, car or bus/lorry, or both, in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. You must fill out an DVA residency declaration form before scheduling your test to prove that you are a resident of Northern Ireland. You can see how any personal information you give to the DVA will be handled by going to their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window/ tab).
The first step is passing the theory test, which is administered in two parts, the multiple choice section and a hazard perception section. Candidates must complete at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly to pass the test and receive an official certificate of passing. The candidates who pass the test are able to book their practical driving test.
The driving test may be conducted in a representative car or in the candidate's car. If a candidate chooses to take their vehicle, it must be roadworthy, have L-plates on the back and front, valid insurance, and the original NCT disk (if applicable). If the examiner detects problems, like tyres or lights not functioning the test will be canceled.
After passing the practical driving test the driver receives a pass certificate which acts as an interim Category B licence for a period of 2 years. This permits them to drive, purchase full insurance for their car and purchase a vehicle before their permanent licence arrives in the mail.
The driver must be accompanied by a fully qualified driver over the age of 21 during the period of their two-year provisional licence that they can keep for a maximum of two years. However, the applicant can also take professional lessons with an approved driving instructor and be certified to drive on motorways, which will allow them to get a full licence sooner than they would have otherwise been able to.
The driving test can be cancelled by the applicant if they cancel at least three days in advance. If they do not give the required notice and do not give any refund.
The fee for the driving test
A driving license is a legal document that allows its holder to drive an automobile 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 a form of identification to apply for a NI licence. This could be a passport, or a UK Birth Certificate. Additionally, you will need to take a picture and sign your application form. These requirements are designed to ensure that only those who meet the minimum standards for driving in Northern Ireland are given a license.
The applicants may be required to take an examination to determine their medical condition, based on their medical condition and age. The NDLS can provide more information in case you aren't sure whether you'll require an medical report.
The NDLS also offers a variety of exemptions from these requirements. However, to apply for an exemption, you must submit the completed medical report of your doctor.
After you have submitted the necessary documents, you can submit your application at an NDLS centre. The NDLS will utilize your documentation to verify your identity. You will be required to have your photo taken and endorsed digitally. You will receive a duplicate of the photo that you can keep in your car to use as a reference if you're arrested by police.
You will also be required to use a representative vehicle to take your test. This vehicle must be roadworthy and include a valid NCT disc front and rear, an insurance cover and original motor tax discs.
Booking your driving test in advance is highly advised. There is a waiting list for some of the tests, therefore it is essential to schedule your appointment as soon as you can. The NDLS offers a phone booking system for those who do not wish to go to a testing center. This service is available at 028 902 0410. The fee for a Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for motorbikes, cars or mopeds PS80 for taxis, and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.