How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain may seem daunting but it's a lot easier than you think. Understanding eligibility, unique advantages and deciding on the right insurer is the most important factor to success.
The licenses issued in Northern Ireland are laminated plastic cards, similar to European licenses. They display the bearer’s photo and their name (in Latin or Cyrillic) as well as their address of residence as well as the categories they are allowed to use and their signature.
How do you apply for a driving licence
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 before their 17th birthday. However, they are not able to drive until the date of their birth. To get a full driver's licence, a driver who is new must pass both a theory 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 in your application. If you submit your application online, it should take around a week to receive your new driving license. If you apply by post it could take up to three weeks.
NDLS offers a variety of information, tips and forms on its website for drivers. You can download a report about your eyesight (DL3 form) medical fit-ness guidance and forms along with 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 legally required to carry your driving licence at all times you are in the vehicle. Driving without a valid licence is illegal and An Garda S could arrest you and fine you. ochana. If you are a frontier worker who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to work, you may be exempt from having to exchange your EU/ EEA driving licence. If you are working on an employment contract for temporary duration and will be returning to your home country for the duration of the contract, then you may not have to exchange your driving licence.
If you're over 70, you will be contacted regarding renewing your license by the driving agency approximately two months before your present one expires and every three years from that point on. Until you receive this contact you should continue to renew your UK/NI licence applying for DL1R on the renewal form. You should then submit it to NDLS with your existing photocard and the paper counterpart.
Licence holders from countries outside of the EEA and the UK have to change their licences when they relocate to the Republic of Ireland. However, if you have categories on your licence from the UK or Northern Ireland which indicate a minibus or a bus with a 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 consists of 50 questions on road signs and markings. The answers are displayed on the screen and you have to tick one of the answers that best matches the question. You can alter your answer at any time during the test. However you must ensure that you choose the correct answer. You could be awarded an amount of points based on your answers. On-line DVSA mock test will allow you to practice your theory exam. They are available on the website of the DVSA, and some public libraries have them as well. Bring your photocard and paper equivalent to the theory test center. You should arrive 15 minutes earlier.
Online application is the quickest and most convenient method to schedule your theory test. You can also download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or get the form from an NDLS centre. You can also call the NDLS customer service team to schedule your test over the phone or by post. If you wish to change or cancel your test, you must do so by 5 business days before the time of your appointment. Otherwise, you'll lose your test fee.
You will need to bring an acceptable photo ID on the day of your test, such as an EU passport or an UK passport with an active NI address. You may also present electronic proof of your identity, like a bank statement that has your name and your NI address.
It is advisable to use official RSA revision materials to increase your chances of passing the test. You can buy the learning portal subscription, books, and CD-ROMs from RSA website, or you can borrow them from your local library. It is also recommended to look up the most recent edition of the RSA theory test questions.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to assist you take your theory test if you have any special requirements. This can be done by ticking the appropriate box on your theory test application form (pdf). You can also request an interpreter for sign language by calling 0818-606106.
The test in the real world
If you have a UK provisional driving license and want 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. To prove this, you need to fill out a residency declaration form to the DVA before booking your test. Visit the DVA's privacy notice to see how they will handle any personal information that you provide to them.
The first step in the process is to pass the theory test. It is divided into two sections: a multiple-choice section and a section on danger perception. The test taker must be able to answer at least 43 out of the 50 questions correctly in order to pass the test and get an official certificate of passing. Those 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 is using their own vehicle, they should ensure that it is roadworthy, that it has their L-plates on the front and back, has valid insurance and the original NCT disc (if applicable). If the examiner discovers any defects, such as lights or tyres that are not working, the test will be cancelled.
After passing the test for practical driving, the candidate receives a pass certificate which acts as a temporary Category B license for a period of two years. This permits the driver to drive, obtain full car insurance and even purchase a vehicle before they receive their permanent license in the mail.
The driver must be accompanied by a qualified driver over the age of 21 during the period of their two year provisional license which they are able to keep for a maximum of two years. However, the driver can also take professional instruction with a licensed driving instructor and be certified to drive on motorways and will be able to obtain a full license sooner than they would have otherwise been allowed to.
The driving test may be canceled by the applicant if they cancel at least three days in advance. If they fail to give the required time they will not be entitled to any refund.
The cost for the driving test
A driving licence is a legal document that allows the holder to drive a motor vehicle on public roads. In Highly recommended Reading 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'll need to provide an identification document when applying for a NI license. This could be a passport or a UK Birth Certificate. Additionally, you will need to take a picture and sign your application. These requirements are in place to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum requirements of driving in Northern Ireland can be granted a license.
Applicants may have to undergo a medical examination, depending on their medical health and age. If you are unsure whether you will require medical records then the NDLS has more information.
The NDLS offers a number of exemptions to these requirements. However, in order to apply for an exemption you must submit an official medical report from your doctor.
Once you have submitted all of the necessary documents, you are able to visit an NDLS centre to complete your application in person. The NDLS will use your documents to verify your identity, and you will be required to take your photograph taken and signed digitally. You will be provided with an image copy to keep in your car for reference if you are stopped by the police.
You will be required to provide an example vehicle to conduct your test. This vehicle must be roadworthy and have an original NCT disc on the front and back, insurance cover, and original motor tax discs.
It is recommended to make your appointment for your driving test in advance. There is a waiting list for certain of the tests, so it is crucial to book your appointment as soon as you can. The NDLS provides a booking phone system for those who don't wish to go to a testing center. This service can be contacted by calling 028 902 0410. The fee for an Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for cars, motorcycles and mopeds PS80 for taxis, and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.