6. Driving licence

When you pass the driving test you are issued with a certificate of competency. This certificate does not entitle you to drive as a full licence holder. You must abide by the rules of your learner permit until you are issued with a full driving licence.

You must apply for your driving licence within two years of receipt of your certificate of competency. If you don't apply for your licence within this time your certificate of competency will no longer be valid and you will have to pay for and sit the driving test again.

You can apply for a driving licence online at ndls.ie with a Public Services Card and verified MyGovID or in person at your local National Driver Licence Service centre.

Only once you are in possession of a full valid driving licence are you legally allowed to drive while unaccompanied.

About your driving licence

After passing your driving test, you can apply for a full driving licence online at ndls.ie or in person at your local National Driver Licence Service centre (NDLS). You must abide by the rules of your learner permit until you have been issued with a full driving licence. You should apply within two years of the date you passed your test. If not you will have to re-sit and pass the driving test.

How to apply for your driving licence
DRIVING LICENCE FAQS

How to apply for your driving licence

Apply online with MyGovID

You can now quickly and easily apply for your driving licence 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 your driving licence online you will need the following:

a Public Services Card (PSC) and verified MyGovID
to have passed the driver theory test in the category
proof of your address dated within the last six months if your current address differs from the one you provided when you applied for your PSC
proof that you are normally resident in Ireland if your place of birth and nationality are outside the EU/EEA
your completed and signed medical report form dated within the last three months, and an eyesight report form dated within the last three months, if applicable to you
your application fee of €35.00. Other permit durations and fees may apply to you. You can pay by credit or debit card.

Apply in person at any NDLS centre

To apply for your driving licence you will need the following:

A completed and signed learner permit application form
your certificate of competency
your current or most recent learner permit. If your permit has been lost or stolen, you must also bring valid photo ID with you
Proof of your address dated within the last six months
Proof that you are normally resident in Irelandif your place of birth and nationality are outside the EU/EEA
Proof of your personal public services number (PPSN)
your completed and signed medical report form dated within the last three months, and an eyesight report form dated within the last three months, if applicable to you
Your application fee of €35.00. You can pay by these methods.

Book an appointment online or walk in to any NDLS centre

You can either book 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.

DRIVING LICENCE FAQS

If I don't wear glasses do I still need an eyesight report?

You may need an eyesight report if your medical practitioner refers you to an optometrist.

Everyone applying for a learner permit for a category C (truck) vehicle must also submit a medical report form. Your medical practitioner may also refer you to an optometrist to have an eyesight report form completed.

If I have no medical issues do I still need a medical report?

Yes. Everyone applying for a learner permit for a categoryC (truck) vehicle must also submit a medical report form.