Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 January 2021
25. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Transport the changes he has agreed at a local or European level for applicants to obtain a new or first-time Irish driver licence during the Covid-19 lockdown in view of the ongoing challenges facing those looking to renew or receive a new or first-time drivers licence in physically presenting for the test or with the form. [1956/21]
View answerMy Department has been working with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and their providers to continue to operate the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) through the Covid-19 crisis, while keeping both staff and the public as safe as possible. New initiatives have been introduced to create additional capacity through a combination of additional staff, extended and additional operating hours (i.e. Sundays where needed), and the provision of overtime. Under level 5 restrictions essential workers can continue to attend the NDLS centres in person, if they have an appointment, to apply for or renew their driving licence.
The RSA has also expanded the current online facility to accommodate all driving licence and learner permit applications. A verified MyGovID account, which requires a Public Services Card, is needed to access the online system.
All persons of 70 years of age and over are now invited to renew their driving licence or learner permit by post, freeing up capacity at the NDLS and reducing the need for more vulnerable members of society to attend the offices in person.
The Driver Theory Test service (which has been deemed by Government to be non-essential) has launched a pilot phase of a new initiative, which offers a Remote Testing service for specific categories of Theory Test. Following a review of the pilot phase, the RSA expect the initiative to be extended for car and motorcycles in the future.
Under Covid-19 Level 5 Government restrictions effective from 31 December 2020, candidates can attend their scheduled driving test appointment provided they are an essential worker involved in the provision of essential services or essential retail outlets. Details on what is included in the list of essential workers and retail outlets can be found at www.gov.ie.
