Driver Licence Data

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 April 2015

Thursday, 16 April 2015

Ceisteanna (199)

Seamus Kirk

Ceist:

199. Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of Irish drivers who have received an international driving permit in each of the past four years; the costs associated in awarding these permits; the most popular countries for which Irish drivers have obtained an international driving permit; his views on the security features in the international driving permit; if he is satisfied with the corresponding use of international driving permits here by non-European Union drivers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15004/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

International Driving Permits (IDPs) are issued on behalf of my Department by the Automobile Association (AA), and my Department has no direct role in the process.  I have therefore referred the matter of numbers of permits issued, and countries for which they were issued, to the AA for direct reply.   

In regard to the other matters raised, I understand that the IDP derives from international conventions dating from 1926 and 1949.  The security of the IDP depends on the security of the national driver licensing system, as it is not possible to get an IDP without a full licence.  In cases where people are driving with an IDP, they must still be able to produce their own national licence if required. 

In regard to the use of IDPs in Ireland by non-EU/EEA drivers, I am not aware of any issues or difficulties.

On the matter of costs, the fee for an IDP is €10.  This is set in regulations for which I have responsibility.  I understand that the AA also charges an additional administration fee of €5, but only in the case of postal applications.  There are no costs to the Exchequer from the IDP.