How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain might seem challenging however it's more straightforward than you think. Understanding eligibility, unique benefits and choosing an appropriate insurer is essential to achieving success.
The licences issued in Northern Ireland are laminated plastic cards, similar to European licenses, that show the photo of the bearer, their name (in Latin or Cyrillic), their home address, categories allowed and signature.
How to apply for a NI driver licence
The NI driving licence is made up of two parts: the plastic photocard, and the paper counterpart. A driver who is new can get an image card licence until the day before their 17th birthday. However, they cannot drive till their date of birth. To obtain Buy European driving license Uk online driving licence, a driver who is new must pass both a theory and practical test.
You can apply online or by sending an application form to NDLS. It is essential to include a current passport-style photo along when you submit your application. You should get your new license in around a week if apply online. If you apply by post it could take up three weeks.
NDLS provides a range of information and tips on its website for drivers, including guidelines and forms. You can download a report on your eyesight (DL3 form), medical fit-ness guidance and forms, as well as health and driving information leaflets. Patients with epilepsy need to fill out an FEP1 form in order to inform NDLS of their condition.
It is an obligation of law to carry your driving license at all times you are in the vehicle. Driving without a valid licence is illegal. An Garda S could arrest you and fine you. ochana. If you're a frontier worker and regularly travel between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to work, you may be exempt from having to exchange your EU/ EEA driving license. If you are enrolled in a temporary employment contract and are planning to return to your home country during the duration of the contract, then you might not need to exchange your driving licence.
The driving authority will notify you regarding renewing your licence when you reach 70. This will occur approximately two months before the expiration of your current license and every three years after that. When this call is not made and you are able to renew your license in the UK/NI region by filling out the DL1R renewal application form and submitting it to NDLS together with your current photocard.
Licence holders who are not from the EEA or the UK will have to exchange their licences to move to 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 indicating 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 which includes 50 questions about road markings and signs. Answers are displayed on screen and you have to select the option that is most appropriate to the question. You are able to change your answer at any point during the test. However it is essential to ensure that you choose the correct option. Based on your answers you could be awarded a certain amount of points. On-line DVSA mock tests will allow you to practice your theory test. You can find them on the DVSA's website and some libraries in public have them as well. 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 early.
The quickest and easiest way to book your test is to apply online. You can also download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or pick up one from an NDLS centre. You can contact the NDLS Customer Service team to make an appointment for tests by phone or via mail. If you want to reschedule or cancel your test you must notify us by 5 business days before the time of your appointment. You will lose the fee for the test if you do not.
You'll need an acceptable photo ID on the day of the test, for example an EU passport or an UK passport that has a valid NI address. You can also use electronic proof of your identity, such as a bank statement that has your name and the NI address.
It is advisable to make use of official RSA revision materials to increase 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 materials from your local library. You should also take a look at the most current edition of the RSA theory test questions.
If you have any specific needs, you can request an interpreter or 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 Irish Sign Language interpreter by calling 0818 606 106.

The test in the real world
If you are a holder of a UK provisional license and would like to take a motorbike, car or bus/lorry theory or practical test in Northern Ireland, you will require to be a resident in the province. To prove this, you must submit a form of residency declaration to the DVA before you can book your test. The DVA's privacy policy to see how they will manage any personal information you provide them with.
The first step in the process is passing the theory test. It is split into two sections, an multiple-choice section as well as a section on hazard perception. To pass the test, a candidate must correctly answer 43 out of 50 questions. Those who pass can book their practical driving test.
The driving test could be conducted in a car used by a representative or the candidate's vehicle. If a candidate chooses to drive their own vehicle, it should be roadworthy, have L-plates displayed on the front and back, have valid insurance, and the original NCT disk (if applicable). If the examiner discovers any problems, like tyres or lights not functioning, the test will be cancelled.
After passing the driving test, the candidate receives the pass certificate, which serves as a temporary Category B licence for a period of two years. This permits them to drive, get full insurance for their car and purchase a car before their permanent license arrives in the mail.
The driver must be accompanied by a fully certified driver who is over the age of 21 for the duration of their two year provisional licence, which they can only hold for a maximum of two years. The candidate can take professional driving lessons with a qualified instructor and learn how to drive on motorways. This will allow them to obtain a full license sooner than they otherwise would be allowed.
The driving test may be cancelled by the applicant in the event that they cancel at least three days in advance. If they do not give the required time, they will not receive a refund.
The fee for the driving test
A driving license is a legal document which allows the holder to operate a motor vehicle in 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).
When applying for a NI driving licence, you will need to provide evidence of your identity, such as passport or UK birth certificate. You will also have to sign and take a photo 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 the right to drive.
Candidates may need to undergo a medical exam depending on their medical health and age. The NDLS can provide additional information if you are unsure whether you'll require an medical report.
The NDLS offers a number of exemptions to these requirements. However, in order to apply for an exemption you must provide a completed medical report from your doctor.
Once you have completed all the required documents, you can go to an NDLS centre to make your application in person. The NDLS will use your documentation to verify your identity. You are required to get your photograph taken and signed digitally. You will be provided with a copy of your photograph to keep in your vehicle for reference if you are stopped by the police.
You'll also be required to use an appropriate vehicle for your test. This vehicle must be roadworthy, have an original NCT disc on the front and back, insurance cover, and original motor tax discs.
Booking your driving test in advance is highly advised. There is a waiting list for certain of the tests, so it is important to make your appointment as soon as you can. The NDLS provides a booking phone system for those who don't need to travel to a testing center. This service is available at 028 902 0410. The fee for the driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for moped, car, or motorcycle; PS80 for taxis; and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.