How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
It may seem difficult to obtain car insurance in Britain for Northern Ireland drivers, but it's actually much simpler than you think. Understanding eligibility, choosing the right insurance provider and understanding unique advantages is key to success.
Licenses issued in the United States are plastic laminated cards that are similar to European licences and show the bearer's picture, name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts) and home address, categories of use and signature.
How to apply for a driving license
A NI driving licence consists of two parts: the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver may obtain a photocard license up to the day before the day of his or her 17th birthday. However, they are not able to drive until the date of their birth. To get a full driver's license, a new driver must pass both a theoretical and practical test.
You can apply online or send an application form to NDLS. Include a passport-style picture that is current when you submit your application. You should receive your new licence within approximately a week if you apply online. If you send in your application by post it could take up to 3 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, as well as health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers must to complete the FEP1 form in order to inform NDLS about their condition.
You must always have your driving license 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 border worker who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to work, you could be exempt from having exchange your EUor EEA driving license. If you are working on temporary employment and will be returning to your home country during the duration of the contract, then you will not need to exchange your driving licence.
The driving department will contact you to renew your license at the time you reach the age of 70. This will happen about two months prior to the expiration date of your current license and every three years after that. When this call is not made, you should continue renewing your license in the UK/NI region by filling out the DL1R renewal application form and submitting it to NDLS along with your existing photocard.
License holders who aren't from the EEA or the UK will have to exchange their licenses in order to move to Ireland. If, however, you have categories on your licence for the UK/NI that indicate a minibus or bus with a 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 theory test is a multiple-choice test which includes 50 questions about road markings and signs. Answers are displayed on screen and you must choose the option that best matches the question. You are able to change your answer at any time during the test. However, you must make sure that you choose the correct answer. Based on your answers you could be awarded a certain amount of points. You can take a test on your theory using the online DVSA mock tests. They are available on the website of the DVSA, and some libraries in public have them as well. Bring pop over here and paper equivalent to the test center. You should arrive 15 minutes early.
Online application is the fastest and easiest way to schedule your theory test. You can download the application form (pdf), either via the NDLS website or from an NDLS center. You can also contact the NDLS customer service team to book your test over the phone or via post. If you want to reschedule or cancel your test, you must do so at least 5 business days prior to your appointment date. Otherwise, you will lose your 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 a address in the NI. You can also use electronic proof of your identity, such a bank statement with your name and the NI address.
To improve your chances of success, it's advised to make use of authentic RSA revision material. You can buy the learning portal subscription, books, and CD-ROMs on the RSA website or borrow the materials from your local library. Also, make sure to take a look at the most current edition of the RSA theory test questions.
If you have any particular needs, you can request an interpreter or a helper to take your theory test. This can be done by checking the appropriate box on the application for the theory test form. You can also request an interpreter who speaks sign language by calling the 0818 606106.
The practical test
If you are a holder of a UK provisional driving license and wish to take a theory or practical test for a motorcycle, car, bus/lorry or both in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. To prove this, you have to fill out a residency declaration form to the DVA before booking your test. You can view the way in which any personal information you provide to the DVA will be handled by going to 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 sections, the multiple choice section and an hazard perception section. Candidates must complete at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly in order to pass the test and receive the certificate of pass. The candidates who pass the test are able 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 and has insurance that is valid and the original NCT disc (if applicable). If the examiner discovers any issues, such as lights or tyres not functioning, the test will be canceled.
After passing the test for practical driving the driver receives an award certificate that acts as a temporary Category B license for two years. This allows them to get full insurance and drive, as well as purchase an automobile before their permanent licence arrives in the mail.
The driver is only able to 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 and will be able to get a full licence sooner than they would otherwise been permitted to.
The driving test could be canceled by the applicant in the event that they cancel at least three days in advance. If they do not give the required time and do not give a refund.
The fee for the driving test is $120.
A driving licence is a legal document that allows the holder to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. In the United Kingdom, this document is managed by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). In Northern Ireland, it is issued by the National Driving Licence Service (NDLS).
You will need to submit a form of identification when applying for an NI license. This could be a passport or a UK Birth Certificate. You will also need to sign and take a picture 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.
Candidates may need to undergo a medical exam in accordance with their medical health and age. If you're unsure if you'll require medical reports then the NDLS has more information.
The NDLS provides a number exemptions to these requirements. To be eligible for an exemption you must provide a medical certificate from your doctor.
Once you have submitted all of the necessary documents, you can visit an NDLS centre to complete your application in person. 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 receive the photocopy to keep in your vehicle to refer to if you're stopped by the police.
You'll also be required to use a representative vehicle to take your test. This vehicle must be roadworthy and have an original NCT disc for the front and rear, insurance cover, and original motor tax discs.
It is recommended to schedule your driving test in advance. There is an application 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. You can contact the service at 028 902 4410. The fee for a driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for moped, car or motorcycle and PS80 for taxis and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.