How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
It may seem difficult to get insurance for cars 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 laminated plastic cards similar to European licences. They display the bearer's photograph and name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts) and home address, categories of use and signature.
How to apply for a NI driving license
A NI driving license is composed of two components, the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can obtain a photocard driving licence at any time until the day prior to the 17th birthday of their child, however they are not able to drive until the birthday. To get a full driving licence, a new driver must pass both a theoretical and practical test.
You can apply online, or mail an application form to NDLS. It is essential to include a current passport-style photo when you submit your application. You should receive your new licence in about a week if you apply online. If you apply via post it may take up to three weeks.
NDLS provides a range of information, advice and forms on its website for drivers. You can download an eye report (DL3 form), medical fitness guidance and forms, as well as health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers are required to complete the FEP1 form in order to inform NDLS about their condition.
You must always carry your driving license in the vehicle. Driving without a valid licence is illegal. An Garda S could arrest you and fine you. ochana. It is not necessary to exchange your EU/EEA driving license if you're an employee of a border agency who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. If you are on a temporary employment contract and plan to return to your home country for the duration of that contract, then you may not have to exchange your driving licence.
The driving agency will contact you to renew your license when you reach 70. This will happen approximately two months before the expiration of your current license, and every three years thereafter. If you don't receive this notification, you should continue to renew your UK/NI licence by applying for DL1R on the renewal form. Then, submit it to NDLS along with your current photocard and the paper counterpart.
Licence holders from countries outside the EEA and the UK have to change their licences when they move to the Republic of Ireland. However, if you have categories on your licence for the UK/NI indicating a bus or minibus 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 test for the theory is a multiple choice exam that includes 50 questions about road signs and markings. The answers are displayed on the screen, and you must select one of the choices that best matches the question. It is possible to change your answer during the test, but you must be sure to select the correct option before you submit your answers. Based on your answers you may be awarded a certain number of points. You can practice your test theory by using the online DVSA mock tests. They are available on the DVSA website, and a few public libraries also stock these. You are required to bring both the paper and photocopies of your driving licence (photocard and paper counterpart) to the test centre, and you should be 15 minutes earlier than the time indicated.
Online applications are the quickest and most efficient method of scheduling your test. You can download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or request the form from an NDLS centre. You can also call the NDLS customer service department to book your test on the phone or by post. You must cancel or change the date of your test at least 5 days before the time of the test. Otherwise, you will lose the fee for your test.
Buy C1 E License Online must bring an acceptable photo ID on the day of your test, such as an EU passport or an UK passport that has a valid NI address. You may also bring an electronic identification document like an account statement from a bank or a utility bill that has your name and address on it.
It is recommended to use official RSA revision materials to improve your chances of passing the test. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription as well as books or take them out of the local library. You should also take a look at the most current edition of the RSA theory test questions.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to assist you take your theory test if there are any special needs. You can request this by checking 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 test in the real world
If you have a UK provisional licence and want to take a car, motorbike or bus/lorry theory or practical test in Northern Ireland, you will have to be a resident in the province. You will need to fill out an DVA residency declaration form before scheduling your test to prove that you are a resident of Northern Irish. You can see the way in which 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 of the process is passing the theory test. It is divided into two sections, one with multiple-choice questions and the other section on hazard perception. To pass the test, the applicant must answer correctly 43 out of 50 questions. 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 chooses to use their own vehicle, they must ensure that it is roadworthy, carries their L-plates on the front and back and has insurance that is valid and the original NCT disc (if applicable). If the examiner discovers any problems, like tyres or lights not working the test will be cancelled.
After passing the driving test, the candidate receives a pass certificate which acts as a temporary Category B license for a period of 2 years. This permits them to obtain full insurance and drive, as well as purchase an automobile before they receive their permanent license in the post.
The driver can only hold a provisional licence for two years. The applicant can attend professional driving lessons with a licensed instructor and learn how to drive on motorways. This will enable them to obtain a full licence sooner than they would be allowed.
The driving test may be cancelled if the candidate gives at least three working days' notice to cancel their appointment. If they fail to give the required notice and do not give any refund.
The cost for the driving test is $120.
A driving license is a legal document that permits its holder to drive motor vehicles on public roads. In the United Kingdom this document is managed by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. In Northern Ireland it is issued by NDLS (National Driving Licence Service).
When applying for a NI driving licence you must provide some form of evidence of your identity, such as a passport or a UK birth certificate. You'll also have to take a picture and sign the application form. These requirements are designed to ensure that only those who meet the minimum requirements for driving in NI are issued a license.
The applicants may be required to undergo an examination to determine their medical condition, based on their age and medical condition. The NDLS can provide more details in case you aren't sure whether you'll need medical reports.
The NDLS also provides a number 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 all the necessary documents, you can submit your application at an NDLS centre. Your documents will be used by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also need to have a digital signature and your photo taken. You will receive the photocopy to keep in your vehicle for reference in the event that you are stopped by the police.
You will need to provide a representative vehicle to use for your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and have an NCT disc that is valid front and rear, insurance cover and original motor tax discs.

It is recommended to book your driving test well in advance. There is a waiting list for some of the tests, therefore it is crucial to book your appointment as soon as you can. The NDLS also provides a telephone booking service, which can be useful for those who don't wish to travel long distances to a testing centre. The service can be reached at 028 902 0410. The fee for an Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for motorbikes, cars or mopeds; PS80 for taxis and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.