Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 April 2016
110. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the procedure required for foreign nationals who need to be able to drive as part off their work but who do not hold an Irish driving licence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8601/16]
View answerThe requirements for foreign nations to drive in Ireland are essentially divided into three main groups, depending on the licence that they hold at the time. Holders of a licence issued by another EU Member State may drive here on that licence and, if they take up residence here, may exchange it for the Irish equivalent. With some non-EU countries, we have agreements on mutual exchange of driving licences. People in this situation can drive here for up to a year on a visitor basis on their own licence. If they take up residence, they will be able to apply to exchange their licence for the Irish equivalent.
In cases where people come from a country with which we do not have an exchange relationship - and this includes the USA - once again, people may drive here for up to a year on their own licence on a visitor basis. If they stay for longer, they will need to acquire an Irish licence. This involves - taking a theory test; applying for a learner permit; completing the mandatory 'Essential Driver Training' course of 12 lessons; and passing the driving test. Normally before taking the driving test, a learner must hold a learner permit for 6 months, but this is waived in the case of qualified drivers from non-exchange countries.
It is not correct that a person is required to have a 2-year learning period, or a further 2 years before applying for the driving test.
