How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain might seem challenging however it's more straightforward than you think. Understanding eligibility, unique benefits and selecting the right insurance is the most important factor to success.
Licences issued in NI are laminated plastic cards similar to European licences. They show the bearer's photo and name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts) and home address as well as the categories that are allowed and signature.
How do I apply for a NI driving license
A NI driving license is composed of two parts: the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver may obtain an image card licence until the day prior to the day of his or her 17th birthday. However, they cannot drive until the date of birth. To get a full driver's licence, a driver who is new must pass both a theory as well as a practical test.
You can apply online, or mail an application form to NDLS. Include a passport-style photo that is current with your application. You will receive your new licence within about a week if you apply online. If you submit your application by post, it could take up to 3 weeks.
NDLS provides a range of information and guidance on its website for drivers with forms and guidelines. You can download an eye report (DL3 form), medical fitness guidance and forms, health and driving information leaflets. Epilepsy sufferers must to fill out the FEP1 form in order to inform NDLS about their condition.
You must always have your driving license in the vehicle. Driving without a valid license is illegal, and An Garda S could arrest you and fine you. ochana. If you are a border worker who frequently travels between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to work, you may be exempt from having exchange your EU/ EEA driving licence. The exemption applies when you are working on a temporary basis and then return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
The driving authority will notify you to renew your license when you reach 70. This will happen approximately two months prior to the expiration date of your current license, and every three years thereafter. In the meantime, you should continue to renew your UK/NI license using the DL1R application form for renewal form. Then, send it to NDLS with your existing photocard and the paper counterpart.
Licence holders who are not from the EEA or the UK must change their licences to move to Ireland. If you have codes on your driving licence that identify a minibus, minibus, or trailer (category d1 and d1e) or that indicate it is not for hire or reward the codes can't be transferred to an Irish licence.
The theory test
The theory test consists of 50 questions on markings and road signs. The answers are displayed on the screen, and you must select one of the choices that best matches the question. It is possible to change your answer during the test however, you must ensure that you select the correct answer before you submit your answers. You could be awarded some points based on your answers. Online DVSA mock tests will allow you to practice your theory test. They are accessible on the DVSA website and some public libraries also have them. Bring both your photocard and paper equivalent to the theory test center. You must arrive 15 minutes prior to the test.
The quickest and easiest method to book your theory test is to apply online. You can download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or request one from an NDLS centre. You can contact the NDLS Customer Service team to schedule tests via phone or mail. If you would like to change or cancel your test, you must do so by 5 business days before the date of your appointment. You'll lose the fee for the test if don't.
You must bring a valid photo ID on the day of the test, for example an EU passport or an UK passport that has an active NI address. You may also bring an electronic proof of identity, such as the bank statement or a utility bill that has your name and address on it.
It is advisable to make use of official RSA revision materials to increase your chances of passing the test. You can buy the learning portal subscription, books, and CD-ROMs from RSA website or borrow them from your local library. Check the latest version of the RSA Theory Test Questions.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to assist you pass your theory test if you have special requirements. This can be done by completing the appropriate box on the theory test application form. You can also request a sign language interpreter by calling the 0818 606106.
The practical test
If you hold a UK provisional licence and want to take a car, motorbike or bus/lorry theory or practical test in Northern Ireland, you will have to be a resident in the province. To prove this, you have to fill out a residency declaration form to the DVA before you can book your test. You can see how 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 of the process is passing the theory test. It is split into two parts, an multiple-choice section as well as a section on danger perception. Candidates must complete at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly to pass the test and get the certificate of pass. Passing candidates can take their driving test in the practical format.
The driving test may be conducted in a vehicle that is representative or in the vehicle of the candidate. If a candidate is using their own vehicle, they need to ensure that it is roadworthy, has their L-plates on the front and back and has insurance that is valid and the original NCT disc (if applicable). The test can be cancelled if the examiner discovers any issues, including non-functioning lights or tyres.
After passing Buy UK driving licence online for practical driving, the candidate receives an award certificate that acts as a temporary Category B licence for two years. This permits them to obtain full insurance and drive, as well as purchase vehicles before they receive their permanent license in the post.
The driver must be accompanied by a competent driver who is at least the age of 21 for the duration of their two year provisional licence that they can be able to keep for two years. The applicant is able to take professional driving lessons with a licensed instructor and learn to drive on the motorway. This will allow them to get a full license sooner than they would have been allowed.
The driving test could be cancelled by the candidate who cancels at least three working days in advance. If they fail to give the required time, they will not receive any refund.
The cost for driving tests
A driving license is a legal document that permits its holder to drive a motor vehicle in public roads. In the United Kingdom, this document is managed by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). In Northern Ireland it is issued by NDLS (National Driving Licence Service).
You'll need to provide a form of identification when applying for a NI license. This could be a passport or a UK Birth Certificate. You will also need to sign and take a picture of your application. These requirements are designed to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum requirements of driving in Northern Ireland can be granted a license.

Candidates may be required to undergo an examination for medical reasons, based on their health and age. If you are unsure whether you'll require medical records, the NDLS provides more details.
The NDLS also provides a number of exemptions from these requirements. In order to apply for an exemption you must provide a medical certificate from your physician.
After you have submitted the required documents, you can make your application at an NDLS centre. The NDLS will use your documentation to verify your identity, and you will be required to take your photo taken and endorsed digitally. You will be provided with a copy of the photo that you can keep in your car to use as a reference if you're stopped by the police.
You will need to provide a representative vehicle to use for your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and have an original NCT disc for the front and rear as well as an insurance policy. original motor tax discs.
Making your driving test reservations in advance is highly recommended. There is a waiting list for certain of the tests, so it is essential to schedule your appointment as soon as you are able to. The NDLS offers a telephone booking system for those who don't wish to travel to a testing facility. You can reach this service at 028 902 4410. The cost for a driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for moped, car or motorcycle; PS80 for taxis; and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.