A learner permit allows you to drive on all public roads, except motorways, for the purposes of learning to drive a work vehicle or tractor. If your vehicle has been designed to carry a passenger, the passenger must have held a full driving licence in the same category for at least two years.
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. We recommend that you take driving lessons with an appropriately qualified RSA Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) before you take your driving test.
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 learner permit allows you to drive on all public roads, except motorways, for the purposes of learning to drive a work vehicle and tractor. If your vehicle has been designed to carry a passenger, the passenger must have held a full, valid driving licence in the same category for at least two years.
We recommend that you take driving lessons with an appropriately qualified RSA Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) before taking your driving test.
At the theory test centre you would have been issued with a driver 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 becomes invalid and you will have to pay for and pass the driver 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 online for a learner permit in category W, with an existing full licence in another category, 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.
As a work vehicle and tractor learner permit holder you must not: