How to Buy a Driving Licence in Northern Ireland
Car insurance for Northern Ireland drivers in Britain may seem difficult, but it can be more straightforward than you think. Understanding eligibility, the unique benefits and choosing an appropriate insurer is the key to success.
Licences issued in NI are laminated plastic cards similar to European licences. They display the bearer's picture, name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts) and home address, categories of use and signature.
How do you apply for a driving license
The NI driving licence is made up of two parts of the plastic photocard and the paper counterpart. A new driver can obtain the photocard driving license anytime up to the day before the 17th birthday of their child, however they are not able to drive until the birthday. A new driver must pass a theory test and practical driving test to earn their full license.
You can apply online, or mail an application form to NDLS. Include a passport-style photograph that is current with your application. You will get your new license in around a week if apply online. If you send in your application via post, it could take up to three weeks.
NDLS provides a range of information and guidance on its website to help drivers with forms and guidelines. You can download an eyesight report (DL3 form), medical fitness guidance and forms, and health and driving information leaflets. Applicants with epilepsy must complete an FEP1 form in order to inform NDLS of their condition.
It is an obligation of law to carry your driving licence whenever you are in the vehicle. Driving without a valid driver's licence is illegal and could result in an arrest and a fine from An Garda S ochana. It is not necessary to exchange your EU/EEA driver's license if you're an employee of a border agency who regularly travels between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. This exemption is available when you are working on a temporary contract and then return to your home country for the duration of your contract.
The driving department will contact you regarding renewing your licence at the time you reach the age of 70. This will happen about two months before the expiration date of your current license and every three years after that. Until this contact is received and you are able to renew your license in the UK/NI region by filling out the DL1R renewal application form and submitting it to NDLS along with your existing photocard.
Licence holders who are from that are not part of the EEA and the UK must exchange their licences when they move to the Republic of Ireland. If you have codes on your driving licence that indicate a bus minibus, trailer, or bus (category d1 and d1e) or indicate that it is not for hire or reward, these codes cannot be transferred to an Irish licence.
The theory test
The theory test consists of 50 questions on road signs and markings. Answers are displayed on screen, and you must select the option that is most appropriate to the question. You can change your answer at any point during the test. However, you must make sure that you choose the correct option. Based on your answers, you may be awarded a certain number of points. The online DVSA mock test will allow you to practice your theory test. They are available on the DVSA's website, and some public libraries also have them. You are required to bring both the paper and photocopies of your driving license (photocard and the paper counterpart) to the test centre, and be 15 minutes early.
The fastest and most convenient way to book your test is to apply online. You can also download an application form (pdf) from the NDLS website or pick up a copy from an NDLS centre. You can contact the NDLS Customer Service team to book an appointment by phone or via mail. Buy UK driving licence online must cancel or reschedule your test at least five days prior to the date of your appointment. You will lose the fee for the test if do not.
You'll need a valid photo ID on the day of your test, like an EU passport or a UK passport that has an NI address that is valid. You may also bring an electronic proof of identity like a bank statement or utility bill that includes your name and address on it.
To increase your chances of success, it is advised to use authentic RSA revision materials. You can purchase the RSA learning portal subscription and books or borrow them from your local library. You can download the most recent version of the RSA Theory Test Questions.
You can request an interpreter or assistant to assist you with your theory test if you have any special requirements. You can do this by completing the appropriate box on the application for the theory test form. You can also request an interpreter who speaks sign language by calling 0818-606106.
The test in the real world
If you hold a UK provisional licence and want to take a motorbike, car or bus/lorry theory or practice test in Northern Ireland, you will require to be a resident in the province. To prove this, you have to submit a form of residency declaration to the DVA prior to booking your test. Check out the privacy notice of the DVA to find out how they handle any personal information that you send them.
The first step is passing the theory test, which is conducted in two parts, an multiple choice section as well as an hazard perception section. The test taker must complete at least 43 of the 50 questions correctly to pass the test and get an official certificate of passing. Candidates who pass the test are able to take their practical driving test.
The driving test can be conducted in a vehicle used by a representative or in the candidate's personal. If a candidate opts to drive their own vehicle, it should be roadworthy, have their L-plates on the back and front, valid insurance, and the original NCT disk (if applicable). If the examiner detects issues, such as lights or tyres that are not functioning the test will be canceled.
When the test for practical driving is passed, the applicant receives a pass certificate that acts as a temporary category B licence for two years. This permits them to drive, get full insurance for their car and purchase a vehicle before their permanent license arrives in the mail.
The driver can only hold a provisional licence for two years. The candidate can take professional driving lessons with a qualified instructor and learn how to drive on motorways. This will allow them to get a full licence sooner than they otherwise would have been allowed.
The driving test can be canceled by the applicant in the event that they cancel at least three working days in advance. If they fail to provide the required notice and they are denied the right to a refund.
The cost for the driving test
A driving licence is a legal document that allows the holder to drive a motor vehicle on 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 submit proof of identity when applying for an NI licence. This could be a passport, or a UK Birth Certificate. You will also be required to sign and take a picture of your application. These rules are in place to ensure that only drivers who meet the minimum requirements of driving in Northern Ireland are given a license.
The applicants may be required to undergo a medical test, depending on their medical health and age. The NDLS can provide more details if you are unsure if you will need a medical report.
Buy UK driving licence online provides a number of exemptions from these requirements. To apply for an exception you must provide a medical certificate from your physician.
After you have submitted all the required documents, you can apply at an NDLS centre. The documents you submit will be scrutinized by the NDLS to verify your identity. You will also have to present a digital signature and your photograph taken. You will receive a copy of the photo that you can keep in your vehicle for reference, if you're arrested by police.
You will also be required to have access to an appropriate vehicle for your test. The vehicle must be roadworthy and have an original NCT disc for the front and rear and insurance cover, as well as original motor tax disks.
Making your driving test reservations in advance is highly recommended. There is an application waiting list for some of the tests, therefore it is important to make your appointment as soon as you are able to. The NDLS also offers a telephone booking service, which can be beneficial for those who don't wish to travel long distances for the testing center. You can reach this service at 028 902 4410. The fee for a Northern Ireland driving test is PS85 for cars, motorcycles and mopeds PS80 for taxis, and PS87 for bus and lorry drivers.