How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain might seem challenging, but it can be a lot easier than you think. Understanding eligibility, selecting the right insurer and understanding specific advantages is the key to success.
Licences issued by the NI are plastic laminated cards that are similar to European licences and show the bearer's picture as well as their name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts), home address as well as the categories that are allowed and signature.
How do you apply for a driving license
A NI driving license is composed of two parts: the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can get an electronic driving licence with a photocard anytime up to the day before the 17th birthday of their child, however they are not allowed to drive until their birthday. A new driver must pass a test of theory and practical driving test to get their full license.
You can apply online, or mail an application form to NDLS. You must include an up-to-date passport-style photo when you submit your application. You will receive your new licence in around a week if apply online. If you send in your application by post it could take up to 3 weeks.
NDLS provides a variety of information, advice and forms on its website for drivers. You can download an eye report (DL3 form) along with medical fitness guidance and forms, and health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers must fill out an FEP1 form to inform NDLS of their condition.
You must always have your driving licence in the vehicle. Driving without a valid driver's licence is illegal and could lead to an arrest and a fine from An Garda S ochana. If you are a border worker who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for work, you may be exempt from having exchange your EU/ EEA driving licence. If you are enrolled in an employment contract for temporary duration and will be returning to your home country for the duration of the contract, then you will not be required to exchange your driving licence.
When you reach the age of 70, you will be contacted regarding 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. If you don't receive this notification, you should continue to renew your UK/NI licence using the DL1R application for renewal form. You should then send it to NDLS with your current photocard and the paper counterpart.
Licence holders from countries outside of the EEA and the UK have to exchange their licences when they move to the Republic of Ireland. However, if there are 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 intended for hire or reward the codes aren't 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 have to tick one of the answers that is most appropriate to the question. You are able to change your answer at any time during the test. However you must ensure that you choose the correct answer. You could earn an amount of points based on the answers you provide. On-line DVSA mock tests allow you to test your knowledge on the test. You can find them on the DVSA's website, and some public libraries also have them. You need to bring both parts of your driving license (photocard and the paper counterpart) to the theory test centre, and be there 15 minutes earlier than the time indicated.
Online application is the fastest and most efficient method of scheduling your theory test. You can 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 via post. If you want to reschedule or cancel your test, you must do so by 5 business days before the date of your appointment. Otherwise, you'll lose your test fee.
On the day of the test, you will need an acceptable photo ID. This can be an EU passport or UK passport with a address for NI. You can also present an electronic identification document like an account statement from a bank or a utility bill that includes your name and address printed on it.
It is advisable to make use of official RSA revision materials to improve your chances of passing the test. You can purchase the learning portal subscription, books, and CD-ROMs from RSA website, or you can borrow them from your local library. Take a look at the latest version of the RSA Theory Test Questions.
If you have any specific requirements, you can request an interpreter or a person to help you take your theory test. You can request this by completing the appropriate box on the theory test application form. You can also request a sign language interpreter by phoning 0818 606106.
The practical test
If you are a holder of a UK provisional license and would like to take a motorbike, car or bus/lorry practical test in Northern Ireland, you will need to be normally resident in the province. You must fill out a DVA residency declaration form prior to taking your test to prove you are a resident of Northern Irish. Visit the DVA's privacy notice to learn how they manage any personal information you provide them with.
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. Link Website must complete at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly in order to pass the test and get the certificate of pass. Those who pass the test are able to take the practical driving test.
The driving test may be conducted in a vehicle that is representative or in the vehicle of the candidate. If a candidate opts to drive their vehicle, it must be roadworthy, have L-plates displayed on the front and back, have valid insurance, and the original NCT disk (if applicable). If the examiner detects problems, like tyres or lights not working, the test will be cancelled.
After the practical driving test is passed, the applicant receives a certificate of pass which serves as 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 license arrives through the mail.
The driver is only able to hold a provisional licence for two years. However, the applicant may also attend professional driving lessons with an approved driving instructor and be trained to drive on motorways which allows them to obtain a full license earlier than they would have otherwise been permitted to.
The driving test can be cancelled if a candidate provides at least three working days' notice to cancel their appointment. If they do not give the required time, they will not receive a refund.
The cost of the driving test
A driving license is a legal document that allows the holder to operate motor vehicles 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 NDLS (National Driving Licence Service).
You will need to submit an identification document to apply for a NI licence. This could be a passport or a UK Birth Certificate. Additionally, you will need to take a photo and sign the application form. These requirements are designed to ensure that only those who meet the minimum standards for driving in NI are issued a license.
Candidates may be required to take an examination for medical reasons, based on their age and medical condition. The NDLS can provide additional information on the subject if you're not sure whether you'll require a medical report.
The NDLS also offers a variety of exemptions from these requirements. In order to apply for an exemption you must submit a medical note from your doctor.
After you have submitted all of the necessary documents, you are able to visit an NDLS centre to make your application in person. Your documents will be used by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also need to have digital signatures and a photograph taken. You will receive a copy of your photograph to keep in your vehicle for reference if you are stopped by the police.
You must provide a representative vehicle to use for your test. This vehicle must be roadworthy and include an NCT disc that is valid front and rear, insurance coverage and original motor tax discs.
The scheduling of your driving test in advance is highly recommended. Buy C1 E License Online is crucial to book your test as soon as you can. There are waiting lists for certain tests. The NDLS provides a booking phone system for those who don't want to travel to a testing facility. You can contact the service via 028 902 4410. The fee for an Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for motorbikes, cars or mopeds; PS80 for taxis and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.