Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 June 2018
1069. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason for the change to the mandatory requirement for a public services card for applying for a driver licence and provisional licence; the cost of the project to make the public services card mandatory for applications; when similar changes for the driver theory test will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24664/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is Government policy to integrate the Public Services Card (PSC) into applications across the range of Government services. Use of a single form of ID will reduce the burden on both individuals and the administration of the State.
The Public Services Card (PSC) became an optional form of proof of ID for the National Driver Licensing Service (NDLS) from 9 April 2018. The possibility of the PSC being made mandatory for driving licence/learner permit applications was considered. However, in line with Government Policy as set out in the eGovernment Strategy 2017 - 2020, while encouraging the use of the PSC, I made clear that it would be necessary to have an alternative to the PSC. The option of using the new NDLS on-line system is being introduced from 5 June, with the alternative of visiting a front office for the purposes of applying for a licence/permit, using the supporting documentation as previously set out in Regulations, remaining in place.
The total cost to the Road Safety Authority (RSA) of the IT element of the project was some €2 million, along with advertising costs in the range of €30,000 to €40,000. While the card is not being made mandatory, I do not regard the advertising costs as wasted, since it did raise awareness of the PSC, the availability of an on-line option for driving licence applications and encourage the use of both.
At present, to undertake the Driver Theory Test, a PSC is being called for. However, in the interests of consistency, options to the PSC will be catered for. As the Driver Theory Test is operated under contract to the RSA by a private company, I gather that allowing for use of a passport, for example, may involve revisions to that contract. That is however an operational matter for the RSA.
