Skip to main content
Normal View

Driver Test

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 May 2021

Tuesday, 25 May 2021

Questions (114)

Michael Lowry

Question:

114. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport if additional measures will be implemented as a matter of urgency to deal with the major backlog in applicants awaiting theory tests; if he will take into account that the majority of non-essential businesses and services have reopened since 17 May 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27753/21]

View answer

Written answers

The Driver Theory Test is considered a non-essential service and remains closed for now. The Department understands the frustration at this decision. These restrictions imposed by the Government based on the advice of NPHET and their panel of scientific experts, are in place to minimize the impact of Covid-19 on this country and its people.

Officials both in this Department and in the Road Safety Authority are keeping the public health situation under constant review and are working extremely hard to ensure that Theory Tests can resume as soon as it is safe to do so.

Because the service was closed for long periods of time over the last year, a large backlog of customers has built up. To deal with the backlog, the RSA have plans to increase capacity when it is allowed to re-open. This additional capacity will see the number of tests increase from an average pre Covid19 output of 15,000 tests per month up to 50,000 per month. This will help significantly to tackle the backlog.

The RSA is working to deliver an online driver theory test service. A pilot online driver theory test is underway for trucks and buses. This will be extended to car drivers shortly, initially with up to 3,200 online tests being conducted per month. Significant operational, technical and contractual issues have to be addressed prior to further expansion. This takes time to put in place, but I can assure you, the RSA are working extremely hard to expand the online service as quickly as possible. Online services will be made more widely available towards the end of 2021.

Top
Share