Ultimate Guide to the Provisional License
How old do you need to be to obtain a provisional license?
The provisional license is issued to anyone in Ireland who is 17 years old and has passed their theory test but who has not yet passed their practical driving test. Having a provisional license in Ireland will allow you to take regular driving lessons and even drive on the main roads provided you are with an adult with a full license prior to your test. If you want to qualify for a provisional licence you must have live in Ireland for at least 185 days every year.
You need to be at least 17 years old in order to obtain a license in Ireland and you cannot begin taking lessons prior to turning of age. This means that you need to pass your theory test ahead of scoping out a driving instructor. Your theory test however, can be sat from the age of 15 years up. Many students in Ireland sit their theory test in school and then book their first lesson when they are 17 as this is the legal age required to begin your lessons and obtain a provisional license.
How do you apply for a provisional driving licence?
To apply and receive your license you must fill out a D201 application. These application forms can be printed out using the above link or alternatively you can collect one from your nearest National Driving Licence Centre. It’s noteworthy that this form cannot be submitted electronically and needs to be handed in personally. When submitting your application from you must bring proof of your address and a form of identification like a passport for example.
You will also need to submit an eye test and medical form in addition to your D201 application. Both of these forms must be dated within the last 3 months of your application date. You will finally need proof that you passed your theory test so it’s advisable to bring your certificate. There is a charge of €35 to submit your application so take the time to ensure you filled out the forms correctly or else this could result in you having to pay twice.
On the day you will be required to sit for a digital photograph and your signature will be requested. Both of these elements will be used in the creation of your provisional license.
How to renew your Irish provisional license if you had one previously?
A provisional license is valid for up to two years. If you haven’t passed your test after this period of time it is possible to renew. You can renew your license in Ireland up to three times. After the third time you will be required to sit your test. A fee of €35 is payable every time you renew so it’s good to bear this expense in mind. You can renew your provisional online for a second time however if it is the third occasion, you will be required to renew in person at the NDLS again with proof you have booked your test.
If you want to renew your provisional license for the second time, you can do so here.
What are the rules around driving with a learner permit?
You can drive in Ireland with provisional license. However there are a number of stipulations and these stipulations are very important. You must be accompanied by an adult driver at all times while you are using a provisional license. You cannot drive a car with another holder of a provisional license so ensure you have the appropriate licence holder with you in the car.
While driving with a provisional license you must display a learner plate on your car. These ‘L plates’ should have a red letter L with a white background, and the sign must be at least 15cm high with a 2 cm border. While you are a holder of a provisional license you are not allowed to drive on the motorway. Motorways have an increased speeding limit and they are also trickier to navigate for drivers with less experience hence you are required to have your full license to drive on them.
Do you need car insurance to drive with a provisional license?
When you are participating in driving lessons, the car will be appropriately insured by the driving instructor. However, if you are intending on practising with your parents in your own car or theirs, you need to have adequate insurance.
You should contact your car insurance broker as a leaner driver and ask for their advice on an appropriate insurance policy. There is a number of steps you can take to get a reasonable fee on your policy, so it’s important to ring a broker first.
Something to remember:
If you are driving with a parent or a friend, it is vital to have your provisional license on you at all time. If you are stopped by a member of the guard, you will be required to provide your license. Don’t take chances!
