Driver Licence Applications

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 June 2015

Thursday, 25 June 2015

Questions (251)

Michael Moynihan

Question:

251. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if there is any discretion applicable in relation to the six-month rule for a person on a learner permit, before the person can sit a driving test, in the case where a person must leave the country for work purposes before the six-month waiting time would expire and urgently requires a full driving licence for employment purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25498/15]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

First-time learner permit holders for cars, motorcycles and works vehicles (e.g. tractors, JCBs) must wait six months after the date of issue of the particular licence category before they can sit their driving test. This requirement came into effect from 30 October 2007 under the Road Traffic (Licensing of Drivers) (Certificates of Competency) Regulations 2007 (S.I. 725 of 2007).  There is no discretion to waive this condition. Research shows that the longer a learner is supervised while driving, the less likely they are to be involved in a collision.