A category AM learner permit allows you to ride a moped or light quadricycle on all public roads, except motorways, for the purposes of learning to ride, and only after you have completed a full course of mandatory motorcyclist training known as Initial Basic Training (IBT). It also means that you can take IBT with an Approved IBT Instructor.
However, to help keep you and others safe while you learn, some restrictions apply:
You must hold a first learner permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test. This is to give you enough time to practice safe driving. It also allows you to complete your Initial Basic Training (IBT) with an Approved IBT Instructor.
A first and second learner permit are normally valid for two years. In order to get a third or subsequent learner permit you must have booked or sat and failed the driving test in the previous two years.
If you have sat and failed a driving test in the previous two years you will be issued with a two-year learner permit.
If you have booked an upcoming driving test you will be issued with a one-year learner permit.
A category AM learner permit allows you to ride a moped or light quadricycle on all public roads, except motorways, for the purposes of learning to ride and only after you have completed a full course of mandatory motorcyclist training known as Initial Basic Training (IBT). It also means that you can take IBT with an Approved IBT Instructor.
At the theory test centre you would have been issued with a motorcycle theory test certificate. You have two years from the date on the certificate to apply for a first learner permit in the category. After two years the certificate will no longer be valid and you will have to pay for and pass the motorcycle theory test again. .
Everyone applying for a first learner permit must also submit an eyesight report form. The only exception is if you are supplying a medical report form
Now might be a good time to book an appointment with a registered medical practitioner or optometrist.
Call us on 1890 606 106 (lo call Rate) and we will arrange for a replacement to be issued, subject to a fee of €15.00. You will be asked for some personal details, and the reference number for your theory test. A replacement will not be necessary if you apply online.
You can now quickly and easily apply for your learner permit online. No need to complete paper forms, make appointments or visit an NDLS centre in person. All you need is your Public Services Card and your verified MyGovID for safe, secure access to NDLS.ie
To apply for a learner permit online you will need the following:
To apply for a first-time learner permit in person at any NDLS centre you will need the following:
You can eitherbook an appointment online to attend an NDLS centre or just walk in to any NDLS centre with the required forms, ID and fee. If you take the walk-in option you may have to wait in a queue if the NDLS centre is busy.
Your photograph and signature will be captured electronically at the NDLS centre.
You can apply in person at any of the 36 National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) centres nationwide.
Ireland has driving licence exchange agreements with all of the EU/EEA member states, and with many other recognised states.
If you have a current valid full foreign driving licence from a country that Ireland does not have a licence exchange agreement with, it may be possible for you to take your driving test without having to wait for six months, if:
To avoid having to wait for six months to take your driving test you will need to apply. Download and complete the application form and post it to the address listed on the form.
More details about the six-month rule
As a category AM learner permit holder you must: