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 knowing specific advantages is the key to success.
The licences issued in Northern Ireland are laminated plastic cards similar to European licenses. They show the photo of the bearer and their name (in Latin or Cyrillic) and their address at home, categories allowed and signature.
How do you apply for a NI driver license
The NI driving license is composed of two parts that are the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can obtain a photocard licence up until the day before the day of his or her 17th birthday. However, they are not able to drive till their date of birth. To obtain a full driving license, a new driver must pass both a theory as well as a practical test.
You can apply online or mail an application form to NDLS. It is essential to include a current passport-style photo along in your application. If you apply online it should take about a week to receive your new driving licence. If you send in your application via post it could take up to three weeks.
NDLS provides a range of advice, information and forms on its website for drivers. You can download a report about your eyesight (DL3 form) medical fit-ness guidance and forms along with health and driving information leaflets. Applicants with epilepsy must complete an FEP1 form to advise NDLS of their condition.
It is a legal requirement to carry your driver's licence at all times you are driving. Driving without a valid driving licence is illegal and could lead to an arrest and a fine from An Garda S ochana. You may not have to exchange your EU/EEA driver's license if you're a border worker who frequently travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. If you are working on a temporary employment contract and will be returning to your home country for the term of your contract, then you will not be required to exchange your driving license.
When you reach the age of 70, you will be contacted regarding renewing your licence by the driving department about two months prior to when your current licence expires. It will be renewed every three years from that point on. In the meantime, you must renew your UK/NI licence using the DL1R application for renewal form. You should then send it to NDLS along with your current photocard and the paper counterpart.
License holders from countries outside of the EEA and the UK must change their licences when they relocate to the Republic of Ireland. If you have codes on your driving licence that identify a minibus trailer, minibus, or minibus (category d1 and d1e) or that indicate it is not a hire or reward the codes can't be transferred to an Irish licence.
The theory test
The test for the theory is a multiple choice test that includes 50 questions about road signs and markings. The answers are displayed on the screen, and you have to tick one of the answers that best matches the question. You can change your answer at any time during the test. However you must ensure that you select the correct answer. Depending on your answers, you may be awarded a specific number of points. You can practice your theory test by using the online DVSA mock tests. They are accessible on the DVSA website and some public libraries also have these. Bring your photocard as well as paper equivalent to the theory test center. You should arrive 15 minutes earlier.
Online application is the quickest and easiest way to schedule your theory test. You can download the application form (pdf) either on the NDLS website or from an NDLS center. You can contact the NDLS Customer Service team to schedule a test via phone or mail. If you would like to change or cancel your test you must notify us within 5 business days prior to the time of your appointment. Otherwise, you will lose the test fee.
You'll need an ID with a valid photo on the day of your test, like an EU passport or an UK passport with a valid NI address. You may also present electronic proof of 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 on the RSA website, or you can borrow the books 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 particular needs, you can ask for an interpreter or a helper to take your test. This can be done by ticking the appropriate box on your application for the theory test form (pdf). 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 motorbike, car or bus/lorry practical test in Northern Ireland, you will require to be a resident in the province. You must submit the DVA residency declaration form prior to booking your test to prove that you are an resident of Northern Ireland. You can find out the way in which any personal information you give to the DVA will be handled by going to their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window / tab).
The first step in the process is to pass the test in theory. It is split into two sections: an multiple-choice section as well as a section on danger perception. To pass the test, the applicant must correctly answer 43 out of 50 questions. Those who pass will be able to book their driving test in the practical format.
The driving test may be taken in a vehicle used by a representative or the candidate's own. If a candidate is using their own vehicle, they need to ensure that it is roadworthy, carries their L-plates front and rear as well as valid insurance and the original NCT disc (if applicable). The test can be annulled if the examiner detects any defects such as non-functioning lights and tyres.
After passing the practical driving test the driver receives an award certificate that acts as a temporary Category B licence for a period of two years. This allows them to drive, get full car insurance and even buy a car before their permanent license arrives in the mail.
The driver must be accompanied by a competent driver who is at least the age of 21 during the period of their two-year provisional licence which they are able to hold for a maximum of two years. However, the applicant may also attend professional driving lessons with a certified driving instructor and be certified to drive on motorways which allows them to get a full licence sooner than they would otherwise been allowed to.
The driving test may be cancelled if a candidate gives at least three full working days of notice to cancel their appointment. If they fail to give the required notice or notice, they will not be able to claim a refund.
The cost for the driving test
A driving licence is legally valid document that permits the holder to drive a motor vehicle 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).
If you are applying for a NI driving license, you will need to provide proof of identity such as a passport or a UK birth certificate. You will also be required to sign and take a photograph of your application. These requirements are designed to ensure that only those who meet the minimum standards for driving in Northern Ireland are given a license.
The applicants might be required to undergo a medical examination, depending on their age and medical condition. The NDLS can provide more information on the subject if you're not sure whether you'll need a medical report.
The NDLS offers a variety of exemptions to these requirements. However, to apply for an exemption, you must submit an official medical report from your doctor.
After you have submitted all the necessary documents, you can submit your application at an NDLS center. Your documents will be used by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also have to provide an electronic signature and a photograph taken. You will receive a duplicate of the photo which you can keep in your vehicle to refer to if you are stopped by police.
You will need to provide a representative vehicle to use to conduct your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and have an active NCT disc on the front and back as well as an insurance policy. original motor tax disks.
Making your driving test reservations 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. Buy a Fake UK Licence offers a phone booking system for those who don't need to travel to a testing center. The service can be reached at 028 902 0410. The cost for the Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for motorbikes, cars or mopeds PS80 for taxis, and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.