Driving Test Ireland

To pass the Irish Driving Test it is necessary to:-

  • Maintain proper control over the vehicle at all times.
  • Show anticipation and awareness
  • Take proper precautions when moving off, stopping, overtaking, changing direction and meeting other traffic.
  • Maintain safe and reasonable progress when driving and when meeting and crossing the path of other vehicles

In order to do the test you must hold a valid Irish Provisional Licence and have the use of a suitable vehicle.


You can book the test online at:-


Department of Transport.
Driving Test Online


Tel Nr. 096 78289


Oral questions are asked at the start of the test. These are taken from the "Rules of the Road" booklet.


For your convenience, we have this book on line at :-
rules of the road
Rules of the Road.


(We are the first web site to have the updated March 2007 version in HTML on line)


The book is available from most book shops and Post Free from:-
-
Government Publications,
51 St. Stephens Green,
Dublin 2.
Tel: LoCall 1890 213434


It may also be available in your local public library. Booklet costs 4.00 euro.



If you are using your own car for the test check that it is mechanically sound.  For example, is the handbrake capable of holding the car on the steepest hill in town ?. Check tyre tread and pressures.  Renew wiper blades if worn.


Prior to the test check that brake and indicator lamps are working. In particular check the indicator lenses are clean and unbroken. If these show a "white" light due to a broken lens the test will not be conducted


Affix  " L"  plates so that they are clearly visible to front and rear. Place on the bumper or car body.  (Only tax, insurance and if applicable NCT discs should be on the windscreen.)  


Check petrol, oil, water and tyre pressures.  Fill the windscreen washer and if possible use a windscreen washer additive.


Remove from the interior mirror all dangly bits.  (air freshner, furry  toys, dice, etc). Consign to the boot everything loose and secure safely. Clean the car, in particular all windows, both inside and outside.


Check not alone that the tax, insurance and if applicable NCT discs are valid but  that  ALL details are correct, for example,that index number on the discs corresponds to number on plate of car and that all print clearly legible.  If anything amiss, obtain replacement from relevant authority.   Remember the DISCS are required.  Letters from the insurance company, the mammy, whatever. are NOT ACCEPTABLE.


Since the 14th February 2005 the examiner will also ask you the "technical checks". This consists of "show me or tell me" how you would check 3 of the following:-

  • Tyres
  • Lights
  • Reflectors
  • Indicators
  • Horn
  • Engine Oil Level
  • Coolant Level
  • Windscreen Washer Fluid Level
  • Braking Fluid level
  • Power Steering Fluid Level

More Detailed Information:-
Driver Forum - Technical Checks



You.
Doublecheck date day and time of appointment. Check that your Irish provisional licence is valid for the actual day of test.  If not,contact the motor tax office and renew.


Finally

In order to have the optimum chance of passing, take lessons with a reputable driving school. Ask your friends or workmates if they can recommend any specific school. Otherwise telephone around and enquire from the school what is their pass rate, have they done any training etc.

See:- Choosing a Driving School.


Do not limit your questions to " how much do your charge and do you cover the test route.?.


Other useful Links:-


Government Publication:-
Preparing for your Driving Test. .



New:- Outsourced Driving Test:-
SGS Ireland - Driver Testing. .







Rules of the Road