Michael Ring
Ceist:347 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Transport when the ten countries about to enter the EU in May 2004 will have their driving licences recognised and valid here. [7452/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 9 March 2004
Ceisteanna (260, 261)
Freagraí scríofa
As a person who holds a driving licence issued by a member state of the European Union is permitted to drive in Ireland for so long as that licence remains valid, driving licences from the accession countries will, in accordance with the existing regulatory provisions, be recognised here for driver licensing purposes from the date of accession.
Billy Timmins
Ceist:348 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Transport the position in relation to persons over 60 years of age who had full driving licences in the past that are now out of date and have to apply to do the test; if they have to do the theory test; if so, if there is assistance available to persons who are nervous of using a screen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7469/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraA lapsed driving licence may be renewed within a period of ten years from the date of expiry of a previous driving licence. After ten years has elapsed a person must first pass the driver theory test, apply for a provisional licence and undergo the driving test in order to obtain a driving licence. The specification which the contractor operating the driver theory test is obliged to meet provides for the delivery of a user-friendly computerised theory testing system and requires that candidates with special needs be provided for. This includes the provision of reading assistance and voice over audio with an extended time slot for the test. When applying for a test, applicants may indicate that they have special requirements.