Joint Committee on Transport and Communications Networks to meet with the RSA to discuss the ongoing backlog in driving tests, affecting up to 100,000 people

Speaking before the meeting, Committee chairman, Kieran O’Donnell TD said: “The Committee is eager to hear from the RSA regarding their plans to reduce the significant and escalating backlog of up to 100,000 people looking to access driving tests which has developed. This backlog is giving rise to serious knock-on consequences for thousands of people, including essential workers as well as  young people who are consequently impacted on the insurance premium front which has developed under Covid-19 restrictions.

“The current situation is immensely challenging for approximately 100,000 people who form part of the RSA driving tests waiting list; 62,500 of which could have an average of 20 weeks plus waiting time to avail of a driving test once restrictions are lifted, while approximately another 30,000 people have either not completed their Essential Driver Training (not permitted during level 5) or as yet have not reached the six month rule to access a driving test.   While driver tests are operating for essential workers with approximately 5,800 scheduled for a test and 3,000 waiting - the growing waiting lists are very concerning.

“It is expected that 40 additional driving testers on top of the 140 testers will be in place by June, but with each tester currently only doing six driving tests a day in these Covid times, the reduced capacity at present is a worry. We look forward to hearing from the RSA regarding their plans to reduce the wait time for driving tests. Furthermore, the Committee will be seeking details from the RSA on the precise plans and timescale to reintroduce and double the capacity of Driver Theory Tests.”

For more information regarding the Joint Committee on Transport and Communications Networks, see the Committee webpage