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Driver Test

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 June 2021

Tuesday, 29 June 2021

Ceisteanna (114)

Claire Kerrane

Ceist:

114. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to issues being experienced by those who have booked their driver theory test before being notified of their appointment being cancelled and rescheduled some up to seven times and the difficulties this poses for those awaiting their theory test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34615/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I can assure you that the Department is very aware of the challenges facing the RSA and its contract provider as they work hard to further manage the backlog in the Driver Theory Testing Service.

The gradual re-opening of in-person driver theory test centres commenced on the 8th of June. Test centres reopened and will be permitted to conduct 25,000 theory tests monthly.

The centres have extensive COVID-19 measures in place to protect both customers and staff and to ensure the safe delivery of the service.

The in-person Theory Test Services has the ability to gradually increase to 50,000 tests per month over time, if public health guidance permits. As the current guidelines restricts capacity to 25,000 tests per month, this means that there are currently some customers with an appointment for a Theory Test in June and July which must be rescheduled to a later date due to the volume restrictions.

The RSA has been working to deliver an online theory test service, with a pilot online test already underway for trucks and buses. This pilot service has now been extended to include a limited number of car and motorbike tests.

The new offering will see 4,000 online theory tests available for all categories of vehicles per month in June. From July, the RSA plan to offer up to 10,000 tests per month. Tests are available on a first-come-first-served basis with the new online service becoming more widely available later in the year.

The RSA, like all organisations, and business must take its direction and guidance from the Government and the HSA in relation to capacity restrictions for in-person services and therefore must adopt and implement all recommendations relating to the services which can be provided. It will take time for the theory test service to return to normal and for the backlog to the cleared due to the service being suspended however, the Road Safety Authority has plans in place for a gradual return of waiting times to their pre-Covid levels.

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