How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain might seem challenging, but it can be much simpler than you think. Understanding eligibility, unique benefits and choosing an appropriate insurer is the most important factor to success.
Licences issued in NI are laminated plastic cards similar to European licences. They show the bearer's picture, name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts), home address as well as the categories that are allowed and signature.
How to apply for a NI driving license
The NI driving licence is made up of two parts of the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can apply for a photocard driving licence at any time up to the day before their 17th birthday, however they are not allowed to drive until their birthday. To get a full driving licence, a driver who is new must pass both a theory and practical test.
You can submit your application online or by mailing a form to NDLS. It is essential to include a current passport-style photo when you submit your application. If you submit your application online, it should take around a week to receive your new driving licence. If you submit your application via post it could take up to three weeks.
NDLS provides a variety of information, advice and forms on its website for drivers. You can download an eyesight report (DL3 form) along with medical fitness guidance and forms, and health and driving information leaflets. Applicants with epilepsy are required to fill out the FEP1 form to inform NDLS about their condition.
You must always have your driving license in the vehicle. Driving without a valid license is illegal. An Garda S could arrest you and fine you. ochana. It is not necessary to exchange your EU/EEA driver's license if you're a border worker who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. This exemption is available when you are working on a temporary basis and you 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 happen about two months before the expiration date of your current license and every three years thereafter. Until this contact is received it is recommended that you continue renewing your UK/NI licence by filling out the DL1R renewal application form and submitting it to NDLS together with your current photocard.
Licence holders who are from that are not part of the EEA and the UK have to change their licences when they relocate to the Republic of Ireland. If, however, you have categories on your licence for the UK/NI indicating a bus or minibus with 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 test for theory comprises 50 questions about markings and road signs. The answers are displayed on the screen, and you must select one of the options that is most appropriate to the question. You can alter your answer at any time during the test. However it is essential to ensure that you select the correct answer. Based on your answers, you could be awarded a certain amount of points. The online DVSA mock tests allow you to practice your theory exam. Buy European driving license Uk online are accessible on the DVSA website, and a few public libraries also have them. Bring both your photocard and paper equivalent to the test center. You should arrive 15 minutes earlier.
The most efficient and quickest method to book your test is to apply online. You can download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or pick up one from an NDLS centre. You can also contact the NDLS Customer Service team to book a test by phone or post. You must cancel or reschedule your test at least 5 days before the date of your appointment. Otherwise, you will lose the test fee.
On the day of the test, you will need a valid photo ID. It could be an EU passport or a UK passport with an NI address. You can also use an electronic identity proof, such as an account statement from a bank or a utility bill with your name and address on it.
It is recommended to use official RSA revision materials to increase your chances of passing the test. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription as well as books or borrow them from the local library. Take a look at the latest version of the RSA Theory Test Questions.
If you have any specific needs, you can request an interpreter or helper to take your test. You can do this by completing the appropriate box on the application for the theory test form. 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 licence and are looking to take a theory or practical test for a motorcycle, car or bus/lorry in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. You must fill out a 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 that you give to the DVA will be dealt with by reading their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window or tab).
The first step is passing the theory test, which is held in two parts, an multiple choice section as well as the hazard perception portion. Candidates must answer at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly to pass the test and get a pass certificate. Candidates who pass the test are able to take their practical driving test.
The driving test can be conducted in a representative vehicle or in the candidate's personal. If a candidate opts to take their vehicle, it must be roadworthy, have their L-plates on their front and back, valid insurance, and the original NCT disk (if applicable). The test will be cancelled if the examiner discovers any issues, including non-functioning tyres and lights.
When the test for practical driving is passed, the candidate is issued a pass certificate which serves as temporary category B license for two years. This permits them to obtain full insurance and to drive, and even purchase an automobile before their permanent license arrives through the mail.
The driver is allowed to only be granted a provisional license for two years. However, the candidate may also attend professional driving lessons with an approved driving instructor and be trained to drive on motorways which allows them to get a full licence earlier than they would have otherwise been able to.
The driving test is able to be cancelled if the candidate gives at least three working days of notice to cancel their appointment. If they do not give the required notice, they will not receive a refund.
The cost for driving tests
A driving license is a legal document that allows the holder to operate a motor vehicle in public roads. In the United Kingdom, this document is administered by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). In Northern Ireland it is issued by NDLS (National Driving Licence Service).
You will need to submit proof of identity when applying for an NI license. This could be a passport, or a UK Birth Certificate. You will also have to sign and take a photo of your application. These requirements are designed to ensure that only those who meet the minimum standards for driving in NI are given a license.
Applicants may have to undergo a medical test depending on their medical condition and age. If you are unsure whether you'll require medical reports then the NDLS has more information.
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 physician.
After you have submitted the required documents, you can apply at an NDLS centre. The NDLS will use your documents to verify your identity. In addition, you will be required to have your photo taken and endorsed digitally. You will receive a copy of the photo that you can keep in your vehicle to use as a reference if you're stopped by police.
You will also be required to use a representative vehicle to take your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy, have an original front and rear NCT disc and insurance cover, as well as original motor tax discs.
Making your driving test reservations 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 possible. The NDLS offers a phone booking system for those who do not need to go to a testing center. The service can be reached by calling 028 902 0410. The fee for the driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for car, motorcycle or moped Taxis are priced at PS80; and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.