By law, the RSA can only test essential workers while we remain in level 5, and there is a defined list set out by Government as to who constitutes an essential worker. Tests will not be conducted for non- essential workers while we remain in level 5. No exceptions can be made.
RSA driver testers are undertaking driving tests in extraordinarily difficult conditions in the current Covid-19 environment. The driving test is conducted in an enclosed space for a period of over 15 minutes, where physical distancing is not possible.
I understand that anyone looking for an urgent driving test appointment who is an essential worker 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. I have been informed by the RSA that, as tests are only available to essential workers, there is now surplus capacity. For that reason, the RSA is able to offer test slots to essential workers who have completed the required lessons, almost on demand.
Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) may continue to provide lessons, but only in such circumstances where the learner in question has already been scheduled a test date. While the Department is fully aware of the difficulties that the current suspension of Essential Driving Training (EDT) poses for essential workers who have not yet completed their 12 mandatory lessons, it must be emphasised that this decision has been taken in line with NPHET recommendations that everyone in Ireland work to limit the spread of the virus by staying at home and minimising social contacts in so far as is possible.
Officials both in the Department and in the Road Safety Authority are keeping the public health situation under constant review and are working extremely hard to ensure that EDT and driving tests for all candidates can resume as soon as it is safe to do so.
