20 Things That Only The Most Devoted Buy Northern Ireland Driving Licence Fans Understand
How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain might seem challenging, but it can be a lot easier than you think. Knowing the eligibility requirements, choosing the right insurance provider and understanding unique advantages is key to success.
The licenses issued in Northern Ireland are laminated plastic cards, similar to European licenses. They display the bearer’s photo as well as their name (in Latin or Cyrillic) and their address at home, the categories that are permitted and signature.
How to apply for a NI driver licence
A NI driving licence consists of two components, the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can apply for the photocard driving license at any time up to the day prior to their 17th birthday, however they are not allowed to drive until their birthday. To get a full driver's license, a new driver must pass both a theory and practical test.
You can apply online or send an application form to NDLS. You must include an up-to-date passport-style photo along with your application. If you apply online it should take about a week to receive your new driving licence. If you submit your application by mail it may take up to three weeks.
NDLS provides a range of information, advice and forms on its website for drivers. You can download an eye report (DL3 form), medical fitness guidance and forms, health and driving information leaflets. Applicants with epilepsy must complete an FEP1 form to advise NDLS of their condition.
It is mandatory to carry your driving license in the vehicle. Driving without a valid license is illegal, and An Garda S could arrest you and charge you with a fine. ochana. If you're a frontier worker who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to work, you may be exempt from having to exchange your EUor EEA driving license. This exemption is available when you are working on a temporary contract and you return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
If you're over 70, you will be contacted about renewing your license by the driving agency approximately two months before your present one expires and every three years from then on. In the meantime, until you receive this notification, you should continue renewing your UK/NI licence by filling out the DL1R renewal application form and submitting it to NDLS together with your current photocard.
Licence holders who are not from the EEA or the UK will need to exchange their licenses in order to move to Ireland. However, if you have categories on your licence for the UK/NI indicating a bus or minibus with a trailer (category D1 and D1E) or a code that indicates that it is not intended for hire or reward, these codes are not transferable to an Irish driving licence.
The theory test
The test for theory comprises 50 questions about markings and road signs. Answers are displayed on screen and you must choose the option that is most appropriate to the question. You can alter your answer at any point during the test. However you must ensure that you choose the correct option. Based on your answers you may be awarded a certain number of points. You can take a test on your theory using the online DVSA mock tests. You can find them on the DVSA's website and some public libraries have them too. Bring your photocard and paper equivalent to the test center. You should arrive 15 minutes early.
Online application is the quickest and easiest way to schedule your test. You can download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or request one from an NDLS centre. You can also call the NDLS customer service team to schedule your test over the phone or via post. If you would like to change or cancel your test it must be done within 5 business days prior to the time of your appointment. Otherwise, you'll lose the test fee.
On Express Driving License of the test you'll require an ID with a valid photo. This can be an EU passport or a UK passport with an NI address. You can also bring electronic proof of your identity, such as a bank statement that includes your name and your NI address.
It is advisable to make use of official RSA revision materials to improve your chances of passing the test. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription and books or borrow them from the local library. It is also recommended to look up the most recent edition of the RSA theory test questions.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to assist you take your theory test if you have special needs. This is done by checking the appropriate box on your application for the theory test form (pdf). You can also request an Irish Sign Language interpreter by calling 0818 606 106.
The test in the real world
If you are a holder of a UK provisional driving license and want 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 will need to fill out a DVA residency declaration form before scheduling your test to prove you are a resident of Northern Ireland. The DVA's privacy policy to see how they will handle any personal information that you send them.
The first step of the process is passing the test in theory. It is split into two sections, one with multiple-choice questions and the other section on the perception of hazards. To pass the test, the candidate must answer correctly 43 out of 50 questions. Candidates who pass the test are able to take the practical driving test.
The driving test can be conducted in a representative vehicle or the candidate's own. If a candidate chooses to drive their vehicle, it must be roadworthy, have L-plates on the front and back, have valid insurance, and the original NCT disk (if applicable). The test can be annulled if the examiner detects any issues, including non-functioning tyres and lights.
When the test for practical driving is passed, the applicant is issued a pass certificate that serves as temporary category B license for two years. This allows the driver to drive, obtain full car insurance, and even buy a car before their permanent license arrives 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 licensed instructor and learn how to drive on motorways. This will allow them to obtain a full license sooner than they would be allowed.
The driving test can be cancelled if the applicant gives at least three working days of notice to cancel their appointment. If they do not give the required time they will not be entitled to any refund.
The cost for the driving test is $120.
A driving license is a legal document that allows its holder to drive motor vehicles on public roads. In the United Kingdom this document is managed by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. In Northern Ireland it is issued by NDLS (National Driving Licence Service).
You'll need to submit a form of identification to apply for a NI licence. This could be a passport or a UK Birth Certificate. You will also need to sign and take a photograph of your application. These requirements are in place to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum requirements of driving in Northern Ireland can be granted an license.
Applicants may have to undergo a medical examination, depending on their medical health and age. The NDLS can provide more information if you are unsure if you will need an medical report.
The NDLS also provides a variety of exemptions from these requirements. However, in order to apply for an exemption, you must submit an official medical report from your doctor.
After you have submitted all 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 have your photograph taken and signed digitally. You will receive a copy of your photograph to keep in your vehicle for reference if you are stopped by the police.
You will be required to provide a representative vehicle to use to conduct your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and have an active front and rear NCT disc and insurance cover, as well as original motor tax disks.
It is recommended that you make your appointment for your driving test in advance. It is essential to book your test as soon as you can. There are waiting lists for some tests. The NDLS also provides a telephone booking service that can be useful for those who do not want to travel long distances for a testing centre. The service can be reached at 028 902 0410. The cost for a driving test in Northern Ireland is PS85 for moped, car, or motorcycle Taxis are priced at PS80; and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.