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 choosing an appropriate insurer is the most important factor to success.
Licences issued by the NI are plastic laminated cards that are similar to European licences. They show the bearer's photo, name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts) and home address, categories of use and signature.
How do you apply for a NI driving licence
A NI driving licence consists of two parts, the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can apply for an electronic driving licence with a photocard at any time until the day prior to their 17th birthday, however they are not able to drive until the birthday. To get a full driving license, a new driver must pass both a theoretical and practical test.
You can apply online or send a form to NDLS. Include a passport-style photograph that is current when you submit your application. If you apply online it should take around a week to receive your new driving licence. If you apply by post it could take up to three weeks.
NDLS provides a range 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 must to fill out the FEP1 form to inform NDLS about their condition.
You must always carry your driving license inside the vehicle. Driving without a valid licence is illegal. 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 an employee of a border agency who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. If you are on temporary employment and will be returning to your home country during the duration of that contract, then you will not be required to exchange your driving licence.
When you reach the age of 70, you will be contacted about renewing your licence by the driving agency approximately two months before the date your current one expires, and then every three years from that point on. Until you receive this contact you must renew your UK/NI licence applying for DL1R on the renewal form. Then, send it to NDLS with your current photocard and the paper counterpart.
Licence holders who are not from the EEA or the UK will have to exchange their licenses in order to move to Ireland. If you have codes on your driving licence that indicate a minibus, minibus, or trailer (category d1 and d1e) or indicate that it is not a hire or reward the codes can't be transferred to an Irish licence.
The theory test
The test is a theory one and consists of 50 questions about road signs and markings. Answers are displayed on the screen and you must choose the answer that best fits the question. It is possible to alter your answer during the test, but you must be sure to select the correct answer before you submit your answers. You may receive some points based on the answers you provide. You can practice your test theory by using the online DVSA mock tests. They are available on the DVSA's website and some libraries in public have them as well. You are required to bring both the paper and photocopies of your driving license (photocard and the paper counterpart) to the test centre, and be 15 minutes earlier than the time indicated.
Online application is the fastest and most convenient method to schedule your theory test. You can download the application form (pdf), either via the NDLS site or from an NDLS center. You can also call the NDLS customer service team to book your test over the phone or via post. If you wish to change or cancel your test you must notify us by 5 business days before the time of your appointment. Otherwise, you will lose the test fee.
On the day of the test you'll require a valid photo ID. This could be an EU passport or UK passport with a address for NI. You can also use 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 improve your chances of passing the test. You can buy the learning portal subscription, books, and CD-ROMs from the RSA website, or you can borrow the books 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 helper to take your theory test. This is done by checking the appropriate box on your theory test application form (pdf). You can also request a sign language interpreter by calling the 0818 606106.
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, or both, in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. Buy Northern Ireland Driving Licence will need to fill out an DVA residency declaration form before booking your test to prove you are a 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 test in theory. It is divided into two sections, a multiple-choice section and a section on the perception of hazards. The candidate must answer at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly in order to pass the test and receive the certificate of pass. Candidates who pass the test can book their test for driving practice.
The driving test could be conducted in a vehicle that is representative or the candidate's vehicle. If a candidate is using their own vehicle, they need to ensure that it is roadworthy, carries their L-plates on the front and back as well as valid insurance and the original NCT disc (if applicable). If the examiner discovers any issues, such as lights or tyres that are not working, the test will be canceled.
After the practical driving test is passed, the candidate is issued a pass certificate which serves as temporary category B license for two years. This allows them to get full insurance, drive and even buy a vehicle before their permanent licence arrives through the mail.
The driver is only able to be granted a provisional license for two years. Buy A1 and A2 Motocycle Licence Online can take professional driving lessons with a licensed instructor and learn to drive on the motorway. This will allow them to obtain a full license sooner than they otherwise would have been allowed.
The driving test could be cancelled by the applicant who cancels at least three days in advance. If they fail to give the required notice, they will not receive a refund.
The cost for the driving test is $120.
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 administered by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. In Northern Ireland, it is issued by the National Driving Licence Service (NDLS).
You'll need to provide proof of identity when applying 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 in place to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum requirements of driving in Northern Ireland can be granted an license.
The applicants may be required to take an examination for medical reasons, based on their age and medical condition. The NDLS can provide more details on the subject if you're not sure if you will need a medical report.
The NDLS provides a number exemptions to these requirements. In order to apply for an exemption you must provide a medical certificate from your doctor.
Once you have completed all the required documents, you are able to visit an NDLS centre to complete your application in person. Your documents will be used by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also have to have a digital signature and your photograph taken. You will receive 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. This vehicle must be roadworthy and have an original front and rear NCT disc and insurance cover, as well as original motor tax discs.
Booking your driving test in advance is highly advised. There is a waiting list for some of the tests, so it is essential to schedule your appointment as soon as possible. The NDLS offers a telephone booking system for those who don't want to go to a testing center. This service is available at 028 902 0410. The cost for a Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for cars, motorcycles or mopeds; PS80 for taxis and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.