Driver Test

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 June 2022

Tuesday, 14 June 2022

Ceisteanna (311)

Neale Richmond

Ceist:

311. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Transport the steps that he is taking to reduce the waiting list for driver theory tests; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30435/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

Due to Covid 19 and resulting lockdowns, theory testing services were suspended or curtailed for periods throughout 2020 and 2021. This resulted in significant backlogs developing.

When restrictions permitted, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and its contractors worked hard to deliver these services safely, and to reduce the backlogs and restore waiting times to pre-pandemic levels.

A "super capacity" initiative was introduced which significantly increased capacity.  The number of tests provided increased from an average pre Covid 19 level of 15,000 up to 50,000 appointments per month. This was introduced in July 2021 for a three-month period to tackle the backlog that had built up.  

I understand that waiting times for Driver Theory Tests are now back to normal service levels.