How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
It can be difficult to get insurance for your car in Britain for Northern Ireland drivers, but it's actually a lot easier than you might think. Understanding eligibility, unique advantages and choosing an appropriate insurer is essential to achieving success.
Licences issued by the NI are laminated plastic cards similar to European licences. They show the bearer's photo as well as their name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts) and home address, categories of use and signature.
How to apply for an NI driving license
The NI driving license consists of two parts: the plastic photocard, and the paper counterpart. A new driver can get the photocard driving license anytime up to the day prior to their 17th birthday, however they cannot drive until their birth date. To get a full driver's licence, a new driver must pass both a theoretical and practical test.
You can apply online or mail an application form to NDLS. You must include an up-to-date passport-style photo along when you submit your application. You will receive your new licence in around a week if apply online. If you submit your application by mail it could take up three weeks.
NDLS offers a variety of advice, information and forms on its website for drivers. You can download a report on your eyesight (DL3 form) medical fit-ness guidance and forms and health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers must to fill out the FEP1 form to inform NDLS about their condition.
It is mandatory to carry your driving license inside the vehicle. Driving without a valid driving licence is illegal and could lead to an arrest and fine from An Garda S ochana. You are not required to exchange your EU/EEA driving license if you're a border worker who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. This exemption is available if you are employed under a temporary contract and you return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
When you reach the age of 70, you will be contacted regarding renewing your licence by the driving agency approximately two months before your present licence expires. It will be renewed every three years from then on. When this call is not made it is recommended that you continue renewing your license in the UK/NI region by filling out the DL1R renewal application form and sending it to NDLS together with your current photocard.
Licence holders from countries outside the EEA and the UK must exchange their licences when they move to the Republic of Ireland. However, if you have categories on your licence for the UK/NI indicating a bus or minibus with a trailer (category D1 and D1E) or a code that indicates 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 exam that includes 50 questions about road markings and signs. 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 it is essential to ensure that you select the correct answer. You could earn a certain number points based on your answers. You can take a test on your theory using the online DVSA mock tests. They 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 must arrive 15 minutes prior to the test.
The quickest and easiest method to book your test is to apply online. You can download the application form (pdf), either from the NDLS website or from an NDLS center. Buy Northern Ireland Driving Licence can contact the NDLS Customer Service team to schedule an appointment by phone or post. You must cancel or reschedule your test at least five days prior to the time of the test. You'll forfeit the test fee if you don't.
You will need to bring a valid photo ID on the day of your test, such as an EU passport or a UK passport with a valid NI address. You may also present electronic proof of identity, such as a bank statement that includes your name and NI address.
It is recommended to use official RSA revision materials to improve your chances of passing the test. You can buy the learning portal subscription, books, and CD-ROMs from RSA website or borrow them from your local library. Buy A1 and A2 Motocycle Licence Online can download the most recent version of the RSA Theory Test Questions.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to assist you with your theory test if there are any special requirements. You can request this by completing the appropriate box on the theory test application form. You can also request an interpreter who speaks sign language by calling the 0818 606106.
The test in the real world
If you are a holder of a UK provisional licence and want to take a motorbike, car or bus/lorry theory or practical test in Northern Ireland, you will need to be normally resident in the province. You must fill out an DVA residency declaration form before taking your test to prove you are a resident of Northern Ireland. You can see 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 is passing the theory test, which is conducted in two parts: an multiple choice section as well as a hazard perception section. The candidate must answer at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly to pass the test and receive the certificate of pass. The candidates who pass the test are allowed to book their practical driving test.
The driving test can be conducted in a vehicle used by a representative or the candidate's own. If a candidate uses their own vehicle, they must ensure that it is roadworthy, that it has their L-plates front and rear as well as valid insurance and the original NCT disc (if applicable). If the examiner discovers any problems, like lights or tyres that are not working the test will be cancelled.
After passing the driving test the driver receives an award certificate that acts as an interim Category B licence for two years. This permits them to obtain full insurance and drive, as well as purchase a vehicle before their permanent license arrives through the mail.
The driver is allowed to only be granted a provisional license for two years. The applicant is able to take professional driving lessons with a qualified instructor and learn how to drive on motorways. This will enable them to obtain a full license sooner than they otherwise would be allowed.
The driving test may be cancelled by the applicant if they cancel at least three working days in advance. If they fail to give the required notice and do not give a refund.
The driving test fee
A driving license is a legal document that permits its holder to drive 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).
If you are applying for a NI driving license it is required to present some identification proof, such as an identity card or passport. UK birth certificate. You will also be required 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 NI are given a license.
Applicants might be required to undergo an examination for medical reasons, based on their age and medical condition. The NDLS can provide more details if you are unsure whether you'll require medical reports.
The NDLS also provides a variety of exemptions from these requirements. To apply for an exemption you must provide a completed medical report from your doctor.
After you have submitted the required documents, you can submit your application at an NDLS center. The NDLS will use your documentation to verify your identity. In addition, you will be required to take your photo taken and signed digitally. You will be given a an image copy to keep in your car for reference if you are stopped by the police.
You'll also be required to have access to a representative vehicle for your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and possess an NCT disc that is valid front and rear, insurance cover and original motor tax discs.
Making your driving test reservations in advance is highly recommended. It is crucial to make your test reservations as soon as you can. There are waiting lists for some tests. The NDLS also provides a telephone reservation service, which could be beneficial for those who don't want to travel for long distances to an testing center. You can reach the service via 028 902 4410. The fee for the driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for moped, car or motorcycle; PS80 for taxis; and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.