Driver Test

Tuesday, 23 January 2024

Questions (189)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

189. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the number of learner drivers per week, by county, in 2023 that failed to turn up for their scheduled driving test appointment; the number of driving tests lost through these no-shows; if he plans to introduce measures in the current road traffic bill to ensure that learner permit holders sit a driving test before they can obtain a subsequent learner permit from the RSA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2936/24]

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Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the National Driver Testing Service and the information requested is held by that Agency. I have therefore referred the first part of the question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response is not received within 10 days.

I am committed to taking action on this issue after driving test average wait times have been restored to their target level of 10 weeks. The RSA has advised that they expect this will be achieved by the middle of 2024.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51