Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 December 2020
44. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport if provision is being made for a resident in Ireland with a UK or Northern Ireland driver licence needing to exchange it without a public services card to do so; if provision will be made in advance of the deadline for submission of 10 December 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42293/20]
View answerAfter the transition period (transition period ends 31 December 2020), the UK will no longer be a Member State and so a UK driving licence will not be recognised here. Since 2019, holders of UK licences resident in Ireland have been encouraged to exchange their UK licences for an Irish one before this date.
A person wishing to exchange a UK driving licence for an Irish licence, who cannot avail of the online application system, can book an appointment at a National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) centre through the NDLS website. All applications for a driving licence must be made through the NDLS and must be booked in advance as it is not possible to facilitate any walk-ins due to the social distancing requirements and in the interest of protecting the staff and customers. Anyone looking for an urgent appointment can contact the NDLS Customer Service at 0761 087880 however they currently deal with up to 1,000 calls daily so delays are to be expected.
Legislation exists to allow for the recognition of foreign driving licences for exchange purposes in the Road Traffic Acts. Following the transition period, the potential then exists for arrangements to be made under those Acts and Ireland will be pursuing this option. This may take a little time to complete as it involves a formal agreement and legislation here in Ireland, as well as corresponding steps by the UK.
