To obtain a category D1 (CPC minibus) driving licence you must hold a full, valid category B (car or light van) driving licence and successfully complete all the relevant Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) requirements. You must also prove your identity and your entitlement to a driving licence or learner permit. This means proving that you are at least 21 years of age when applying for a category D1 (CPC minibus) learner permit, that you are normally resident in Ireland, that you have a valid address and personal public services number (PPSN), and that you are medically fit to drive. You should also ensure that your vehicle is safe, roadworthy, insured, taxed and displays L-plates.
If you previously obtained a full category D1 (minibus) driving licence on or before 9 September 2008, you may be exempt from some or all Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) requirements.
You can choose to take a bus theory test or a combined bus and truck theory test. Each test checks your knowledge of topics such as the Rules of the Road, risk perception, eco-driving, hazard awareness, and safe driving behaviour. The theory test is computer-based and user-friendly. When you pass the theory test you are issued with a theory test certificate. This is valid for up to two years and enables you to obtain a learner permit within that time.
A learner permit allows you to drive on all public roads, except motorways, for the purposes of learning to drive and only when accompanied by someone who has held a full, valid driving licence in the same category for more than two years.
The case study test requires you to answer questions on three real-life situations a professional minibus driver might face. The test is computer-based and user-friendly. The test takes about 120 minutes. When you pass the case study test you are issued with a case study test certificate. This is valid for up to two years and enables you to obtain a driving licence within that time.
To prepare for your practical driving test, it is recommended that all new first-time category D1 (CPC minibus) learner permit holders take lessons with an RSA Approved Driving Instructor. These will help you develop the additional driving and road safety awareness skills you will need to drive a minibus professionally.
Before taking the practical driving test you must have passed the category D (bus) or combined C and D (truck and bus) driver theory test, hold a valid category D1 (CPC minibus) learner permit and have passed the case study test. The practical driving test checks your knowledge of the Rules of the Road, your ability to drive competently and safely in accordance with those rules and with regard for other road users. The test takes about 100 minutes. It's a combination of questions to test your knowledge and a practical test of your driving skills and awareness.
Before taking the walkaround test you must have passed the category D (bus) or combined C and D (truck and bus) driver theory test, hold a valid category D1 (CPC minibus) learner permit, have passed the case study test and passed the practical category D1 driving test. The walkaround test checks your ability to keep both your vehicle and passengers safe and secure. The test takes about 30 minutes. We recommend that you complete both your practical driving test and walkaround test on the same day.
When you pass the practical driving test you are issued with a certificate of competency. When you pass the walkaround test you are issued with a copy of the tester's marking sheet. Both are valid for up to two years. You must apply for a category D1 (CPC minibus) driving licence within that time. This allows you to drive on all public roads, including motorways, but not in a professional capacity. If you are still a category B (car and light van) novice driver, you must display N-plates on any vehicle you drive for the first two years.
Once you get your category D1 (CPC minibus) driving licence you must then apply for your driver CPC card. You cannot drive professionally until you get this card. You must have passed all four CPC tests (theory test, case study test, practical driving test, and walkaround test) before you can apply for a full category D1 (CPC minibus) card.
Getting your driver CPC card is just one step in becoming a truly safe and competent professional bus driver. You should continue to drive carefully and build up your experience in different traffic, weather, lighting and road conditions. The Road Safety Authority offers a range of learning materials that will help you develop your road safety awareness and skills. To stay qualified and maintain your driver CPC card you must attend mandatory RSA training every year for five years.