Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 February 2021
114. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Transport if he has put in place facilities for essential workers awaiting theory tests and driver tests in order that they can qualify to drive to their place of employment; if it is possible to do theory tests online; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5485/21]
View answerUnder current level 5 restrictions, the Driver Theory Test has not been deemed to be an essential service. As a consequence, the service is closed while level 5 restrictions remain in place.
The Deputy should be aware that the operation of the driver theory tests is handled by the RSA, under contract, and it is for them to devise the most effective way of how bookings for essential workers will be handled once normal services are resumed.
My Department had previously requested that the Road Safety Authority, as the body legally responsible for the driver theory test, examine whether theory tests can be taken on line remotely and what is required to do so.
The Driver Theory Test service has recently launched a pilot phase of a new initiative, which offers a Remote Testing service for specific categories of Theory Test (C, D, CD, BMT, TMT, ADI, CPCB, CPCT).
Following a review of the pilot phase, I understand the RSA expect the initiative to be extended for car and motorcycles. The RSA are keen to progress and extend the service to all categories of Driver Theory Test, however scaling up operations to facilitate higher numbers will take time to achieve.
During Level 5, driving tests are only available to those involved in essential services.
The RSA would ask that if someone is not involved in the provision of essential services or essential retail outlets, that they please cancel their appointment. They can do so by logging on to www.myroadsafety.ie click on My Booking and then Cancel Booking and choose Non Essential Worker as the cancellation reason. If they have not already registered on www.myroadsafety.ie they must do so before completing this action. The slot will then be reassigned to an essential worker. Do not call or email the RSA to cancel a test.
A customer who has an appointment for a driving test during Level 5 restrictions, and who is an essential worker involved in the provision of essential services and retail outlets should attend their driving test as normal.
Anyone looking for an urgent driving test appointment and falls into either of these categories can apply to book a driving test at www.myroadsafety.ie If there is no available slot and they have made an application, they can ask to be prioritised by accessing https://www.rsa.ie/en/RSA/Learner-Drivers/The-Driving-Test/Request-an-urgent-driving-test/ and providing the relevant details.
