A Guide to Passing the Irish Driving Theory Test
So, you’ve taken the plunge and are getting ready to take the Irish driving theory test? Though it might be a little daunting, Coverinaclick.ie is here to help. Remember, we’ve all been in your shoes and with a little prep work, you’ll be on the road to getting your full licence!
The Irish driving theory test is an evaluation of your knowledge of driving. Taking the theory test will determine whether you know enough about driving the vehicle class you’ve chosen to apply for an Irish licence in. The driving theory test also checks your knowledge of the following:
· Hazard awareness
· Risk perception
· Good driving behaviour
· The rules of the road
· Eco-driving.
Keep reading to find out everything you need to know to get prepared for taking your theory test.
Booking Your Test
Firstly, you’ll want to apply for your test. The Irish driving theory test is hosted by the Road Safety Authority (RSA), and you can apply online here. Before you book it, you can check here what age can you do your theory test in Ireland.
Of course, it’s best to be prepared and most would recommend getting all your revision and studying done before booking your test. Here at Cover in a Click, however, we’re realists. We bet you know at least one person who bought the book a while back and plans to study the Irish driving theory test questions before booking the test. And yet, they’ve not actually gotten around to booking the test… sound familiar? If you’re a procrastinator, there’s nothing wrong with biting the bullet and getting a date in the diary. That way, you can plan ahead, and you’ll find the motivation to study because you know the test is on the horizon. Just make sure you don’t leave it to the last minute!
There are 40 Irish driving theory test centre locations around the country, so you can choose the one most convenient for you to get to. Check out the full list here.
How Much Does It Cost to Take the Irish Driving Theory Test?
The cost of the test depends on the vehicle category you want to get tested in. First-time learner permit drivers can apply for A (mopeds, motorcycles etc.) and B (cars, tractors, and work vehicles) categories only. The cost of the test for either of these categories is €45.
FYI - If you forget to provide correct identification on the day of your test, you may not be eligible to take the test and you’ll lose your test fee.
Studying the Irish Driving Theory Test Questions
To be deemed fit to drive, you must pass the test with a score of 35 out of 40 multiple-choice questions. You’ll do the test on a computer and will have 45 minutes to complete all questions. Not so savvy when it comes to technology? Don’t worry, there’s no requirement for computer literacy and you’ll receive a short tutorial before the test begins.
Materials & Resources
There are lots of great resources available to you when studying for your test.
The Rules of the Road: To start, the RSA has made the rules of the road available online to read or download.
The book or CD-ROM: These can be bought from most Irish bookstores and costs between €18-€22 but they are great resources for the driving theory test. You can also order it online from Easons. You could also check the local library or see if any of your friends and family have the latest version you can borrow.
The App: We recommend downloading the official driver theory test app on your smartphone. Make sure it’s the official app, as you don’t want to be paying for an app with outdated or unreliable information. Using unreliable resources may cause you to fail your theory test, and we want to ensure you pass on the first try! The cost of the app is €14.99.
· Download the Android app here
· Download the IOS app here
The fastest way to learn the Irish driving theory questions is to do mock tests. Continually test yourself and ensure you are passing the mock driving theory test each time. When you’re confident you’re scoring 35 or more every time you take the test, then you’re ready for the real thing!
Don’t stop there, when you’re out in the car with another driver why not test your knowledge? Get familiar with the road signs and markings and different driving scenarios you might find yourself in.
Taking the Test
Now that you’re ready to take the test, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared on the day. Plan your route to the test centre and give yourself plenty of time to ensure you won’t be late in case of any unforeseen delays.
If you need additional support, you can request this on the day of the test.
Remember to bring your I.D. along with you to avoid any issues with being able to take the test and losing out on the fee you’ve paid.
Lastly, keep calm. You’ve put in the work and with the help of Cover in a Click you’ll be on the road in no time. And remember, when the time comes to take a spin in your very own car, be sure to visit Ireland’s low-cost car insurance quotes website for amazing discounts for young drivers and learner driver insurance! Alternatively, if you're in the market for van insurance in Ireland, head over to our partner company Insuremyvan.ie.
In the meantime, you can start looking for your first car, so here are some useful reads: Cheapest New Cars in Ireland 2023 For Young Drivers, Good First Cars in Ireland in 2023: A Step-by-Step Guide & Top 5 Cheapest New Cars in Ireland 2023.
