Vol. 548 No. 2
309 Mr. Farrelly asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the reason a person (details supplied) has been informed of the need to apply for a provisional licence here and go on the waiting list to do a test; the reason the licence is not being recognised here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4602/02]
A person who holds a driving licence issued by a member state of the European Union or of the European Economic Area is permitted to drive in Ireland for so long as that licence remains valid. Where such a person has taken up normal residence in Ireland, he or she may alternatively exchange the licence for an Irish driving licence without taking a driving test.
In addition, Australia, Isle of Man, Japan, Jersey, South Africa and South Korea are recognised states for the purpose of driving licence exchange under the terms of Article 30(7) of the Road Traffic (Licensing of Drivers) Regulations, 1999. Under these regulations, persons holding a valid driving licence from a recognised state may exchange their licences for Irish driving licences where they take up residence here, without the need for a driving test. Ireland does not have a bilateral agreement with Zimbabwe for the exchange of driving licences.
Temporary visitors to Ireland who hold a national driving licence or an international driving permit may drive here for the duration of their visit up to a maximum period of 12 months. Persons taking up Irish residence must, however, either avail of the arrangements described above, where applicable, or begin the process of obtaining an Irish driving licence.
