20 Reasons Why Buy Northern Ireland Driving Licence Will Never Be Forgotten
How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain may seem daunting but it's more straightforward than you think. Understanding eligibility, choosing the right insurer and understanding specific advantages is the key to success.
Licences issued in NI are plastic laminated cards that are similar to European licences. They display the bearer's photograph and name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts) and home address, allowed categories and signature.
How do I apply for an NI driving license
A NI driving licence consists of two parts: the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A driver who is new can get a photocard licence up until the day prior to the day of his or her 17th birthday. However, they cannot drive until the date of their birth. To obtain a full driving licence, a new driver must pass both a theory and practical test.
You can apply online or mail an application form to NDLS. You must submit a current passport-style photo with your application. You will receive your new licence in approximately a week if you apply online. If you apply via post it may take up to three weeks.
NDLS offers a variety of information and tips on its website for drivers with forms and guidelines. You can download an eye report (DL3 form), medical fitness guidance and forms, and health and driving information leaflets. Patients with epilepsy need to fill out an FEP1 form in order to inform NDLS of their condition.
It is mandatory to carry your driving licence in the vehicle. Driving without a valid driving licence is illegal and could result in an arrest and fine from An Garda S ochana. If you are a border worker who frequently travels between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to work, you could be exempt from having to exchange your EU/ EEA driving license. If you are working on temporary employment and are planning to return to your home country for the duration of that contract, then you may not be required to exchange your driving licence.
The driving department will contact you to renew your license when you reach the age of 70. This will happen about two months prior to the expiration of your current license, and every three years thereafter. In the meantime, until you receive this notification it is recommended that you continue renewing your UK/NI license by using the DL1R renewal form and sending it to NDLS together with your current photocard.
Licence holders who are not from the EEA or the UK must exchange their licenses in order to move to Ireland. However, if there are categories on your licence from the UK or Northern Ireland that indicate a minibus or bus with a trailer (category D1 and D1E) or a code that indicates that it's not for hire or reward, these codes are not transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The theory test consists of 50 questions pertaining to markings and road signs. The answers are displayed on the screen, and you must select one of the choices that best match the question. It is possible to change your answer during the test, but you must be sure to select the correct option before you submit your answers. Based on your answers you could be awarded a specific number of points. The online DVSA mock tests allow you to practice your theory exam. You can find them on the DVSA's website and some libraries in public have them as well. You must bring both parts of your driving licence (photocard and paper counterpart) to the test center, and be there 15 minutes earlier than the time indicated.
Online application is the fastest and easiest way to schedule your theory test. You can download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or pick up one from an NDLS centre. You can contact the NDLS Customer Service team to schedule tests by phone or via mail. You must cancel or change the date of your test at least five days prior to the time of the test. Otherwise, you will lose the fee for your test.
On the day of the test you'll need a valid photo ID. This could be an EU passport or a UK passport with a address for NI. You can also present an electronic proof of identity like an account statement from a bank or a utility bill with your name and address on it.
To improve your chances of success, it is recommended that you use the official RSA revision material. You can buy the learning portal subscription, books and CD-ROMs from the RSA website, or you can borrow them from your local library. It is also recommended to look up the most recent edition of the RSA theory test questions.
If you have any specific requirements, you can ask for an interpreter or a helper to take your test. You can do this by completing the appropriate box on the application for the theory test form. You can also request an Irish Sign Language interpreter by calling 0818 606 106.
The practical test
If you hold a UK provisional driving license and wish to take a theory or a practical test for a car, motorcycle, bus/lorry or both in Northern Ireland, then you must be a resident of the province. You must submit the DVA residency declaration form prior to taking your test to prove that you are a resident of Northern Irish. You can see how any personal information that you send to the DVA will be handled by visiting their privacy notice(external link opens in a new window or tab).
The first step is passing the theory test, which is conducted in two parts, an multiple choice section as well as the hazard perception portion. The test taker must answer at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly to pass the test and receive a pass certificate. Those who pass can take their test for driving practice.
The driving test could be conducted in a vehicle that is representative or in the vehicle of the candidate. If a candidate decides to use their own vehicle, it should be roadworthy, and have their L-plates displayed on the front and back, have valid insurance and the original NCT disk (if applicable). If the examiner detects issues, such as lights or tyres that are not working the test will be canceled.
After passing the test for practical driving, the candidate receives a pass certificate which acts as a temporary Category B license for a period of two years. This permits them to drive, get full insurance for their car and buy a car before they receive their permanent license in the mail.
The driver can only be granted a provisional license for two years. The applicant is able to take professional driving lessons with a qualified instructor and learn to drive on the motorway. This will enable them to obtain an official license earlier than they would be allowed.
The driving test can be cancelled if the candidate gives at least three full working days' notice to cancel their appointment. If they fail to provide the required notice, they will be denied a refund.
The cost for the driving test
A driving licence is legally valid document that permits the holder to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. In the United Kingdom this document is administered the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. In Northern Ireland, it is issued by the National Driving Licence Service (NDLS).
When applying for a NI driving license, you will need to provide proof of identity, such as passport or UK birth certificate. Buy European driving license Uk online will also need to take a photograph and sign your application form. These requirements are in place to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum requirements of driving in Northern Ireland are granted a license.
Applicants may have to undergo a medical examination depending on their medical condition and age. The NDLS can provide more details on the subject if you're not sure whether you'll need medical reports.
The NDLS offers a number of exemptions to these requirements. In order to apply for an exemption, you will need to provide a medical certificate from your doctor.
Once you've completed all the required documents, you can go to an NDLS center to submit your application in person. 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 receive the photocopy to keep in your car for reference in the event that you are stopped by the police.
You'll also be required to use a representative vehicle for your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and include an NCT disc that is valid front and rear, insurance cover and original motor tax discs.
Booking your driving test in advance is highly advised. It is essential to book your test as soon as you can. There are waiting lists for certain tests. The NDLS provides a booking phone system for those who don't want to travel to a testing facility. You can contact the service via 028 902 4410. The fee for an Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for cars, motorcycles or mopeds; PS80 for taxis and PS87 for lorry and bus drivers.