Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 December 2020
173. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport if provision will be made to reduce the six-month waiting rule for provisional driver licence holders to sit a test for a full licence on an emergency basis for those working in essential activities such as the health services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39792/20]
View answerThe procedures and protocols around learning to drive were put in place to make our roads as safe as possible. This includes the requirement that learners have at least 6 months' driving practice before they undergo the test. I have no plan to change this rule.
I would point out that the pass rate for driving tests in Ireland stood at 52% in 2019. Allowing candidates to avail of a driving test with less than 6 months' driving experience will inevitably result in a further fall in the pass rate, candidates being obliged to re-sit tests at considerable additional effort and expense, and lead to a further backlog in a system which is making every effort to cope with the difficulties of operating under the various Covid-19 restrictions that have been in place since March 2020.
