Learn how to drive a car in Ireland
Eligibility
You need to be at least 17 years old to drive in Ireland.
Theory test
Before you can take lessons or start practicing driving, you must pass the official driver's theory test.
Apply for a Driver Theory Test
Learner's permit
Once you've passed the theory test, you must apply for a learner's permit. You must hold this learner's permit for at least six months before you can complete a driving test.
Apply for a Driver Theory Test
Tax and insurance
All cars must be taxed before travelling on Irish roads. You also must be covered under a valid insurance policy before driving on any road in Ireland.
You can learn more about insurance here
Driving lessons
Before taking the official driver's test, you must complete 6 or 12 lessons with an approved driving instructor.
Before you sit your driving test, you must undertake 12 lessons with an approved driving instructor. To start lessons, you must first pass the Driver Theory Test and get a provisional driver's licence. To find a list of qualified driving instructors in your local area, click the link below.
Find an RSA-approved instructor or trainer
Book a driving test
Once you pass this test - you can apply for a full driving licence
You must pass this driving test before you can get a full driver's licence. To qualify for a driving test, you must:
Renewing a driving licence
If you are under 60, you will need to renew your full driving licence every ten years. If you are 67 or over, you will need to renew your full driving licence every 1 or 3 years depending on your doctor's advice.