Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 May 2022
118. Deputy Matt Shanahan asked the Minister for Transport the steps that his Department is taking to review the current regulations regarding Ukrainian HGV licences which are not currently recognised by the RSA (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21848/22]
View answer119. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Transport if further clarification will be given regarding recognition of Ukrainian HGV licences considering recent decision on recognition of Ukrainian driving licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21850/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 118 and 119 together.
The Road Traffic (Recognition of Foreign Driving Licences) (Ukraine) Order 2022, which came into effect on 22 April 2022, allows Ukrainians admitted to Ireland under the Temporary Protection Directive to exchange their Ukrainian licences for Irish licences. Such licences are valid for 12 months and will only apply to cars and light vehicles. This measure was taken in response to the immediate and extraordinary humanitarian crisis arising from the conflict in Ukraine.
The Road Safety Authority, as the licensing authority in Ireland, does not recommend the exchange of Ukrainian HGV licences at this stage. Anyone with an EU car licence, which a Ukrainian will have once they exchange their licence, can apply for an HGV licence in the normal way (theory test, learner permit and driving test). The underlying principle in resolving the issue of Ukrainian driving licences is the safety of Irish road users.
