NB: You can also apply for a Drivers Licence at https://irelandlicence.com directly without EXAMS or TEST. All licence issued are fully registered into the NDLS & RSA Database.
How to get an international driving licence in ireland: If you want to drive in another country while on vacation, you need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is a translation of your national driving licence and is accepted in many countries around the world. This article is a complete guide on how to get an International Driving Licence in Ireland. It covers everything from who can get one to how to apply and helpful tips for people who already have an Ireland license.
First you need to know how to Apply for an Ireland License
If you’re looking to obtain a driving licence in Ireland, understanding the process is essential. This guide will cover the steps needed to secure your Irish driving licence, including information on transitioning from an Irish learner permit and how to apply for full license.
Understanding the Irish Learner Permit
Before you can apply for a full driving licence, you may need to start with an Irish learner permit. This permit allows you to practice driving under certain conditions. Here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility for an Irish Learner Permit
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 17 years old.
- Theory Test: You must pass the theory test to obtain a learner permit.
- Application: Complete the application form and provide identification.
How to Obtain an Irish Learner Permit
- Complete the Theory Test: Study for and pass the theory test.
- Gather Required Documents: You’ll need identification, proof of address, and a completed application form.
- Apply Online or In Person: Submit your application through the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) online or at an NDLS centre.
- Pay the Fee: A fee is required for processing your learner permit application.
Transitioning to a Full Licence
Once you have gained experience driving with your Irish learner permit, you may be ready to apply for a full license. Here’s how to make that transition:
Requirements for a Full License
- Minimum Time: You must hold your learner permit for at least six months.
- Driving Test: You need to pass the driving test to qualify for a full licence.
Steps to Apply for a Full License
- Book Your Driving Test: Schedule your driving test through the NDLS website.
- Practice: Ensure you have sufficient practice driving, ideally with a qualified instructor.
- Gather Documents: Prepare your learner permit, identification, and any other necessary documents.
- Take the Driving Test: Attend your scheduled test and demonstrate your driving skills.
- Receive Your Full Licence: Upon passing the test, you will receive your Irish driving licence.
What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a piece of paper that lets you drive a car in other countries. This document doesn’t stand on its own; it works with your valid Irish driving licence. The IDP translates your driving credentials into many languages, which can be very helpful in places where English isn’t widely spoken.
Benefits of Having an IDP
Legal Requirement: It’s the law in many places that you have to have an IDP to drive. You might not be able to rent a car or get a fine if you don’t have it.
Language Translation: The IDP translates your driving information into a number of languages, which makes it easier for police and rental companies to understand what you can do.
Insurance Coverage: Some insurance companies may require an IDP to cover you while you’re in another country.
Requirements for eligibility
You must meet certain requirements before you can apply for an IDP:
- You need to have a full, valid Irish driving licence. Provisional or Irish learner’s permits are not valid.
- You must be at least 18 years old to apply.
- You must live in Ireland and have an Irish licence to do this.
Different kinds of IDPs
There are two main types of International Driving Permits in Ireland:
The 1949 Geneva Convention IDP is the most widely accepted IDP and is good for a year. More than 150 countries, including the US and Canada, recognise it.
The 1968 Vienna Convention IDP is good for three years and is accepted in countries that have signed the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
Find out what IDP you need by checking the specific rules of the country you will be visiting.
How to Get an International Driving Licence in Ireland
Step 1: Get the Documents You Need
Before you start filling out the application, make sure you have these papers ready:
A photocopy of your current Irish driving licence is proof of a valid licence.
Two recent passport-sized photos are needed. These should be the right size and quality.
Proof of Identity: A passport or another form of ID that shows who you are and where you live in Ireland.
You can get the application form from the AA Ireland or the National Driver License Service (NDLS) websites.
Step 2: Fill out the application form
Please fill out the application form with correct information. Make sure to check for any mistakes, because they could slow down the processing of your IDP. Most of the time, the application form asks for your name, address, and driving licence number.
Step 3: Send in your application
You can get an IDP in the following ways:
AA Ireland: The Automobile Association (AA) gives out IDPs in Ireland. You can apply online or go to one of their branches. Check their website for the latest information on where they are and when they are open.
You can also apply for a National Driver License Service (NDLS) at the NDLS office. If you’re already going to the NDLS for other driving-related services, this might be a better choice. This might be a good time to apply for full license if you are looking to do so.
Step 4: Pay the Fee
It costs a small amount to get an IDP, but the amount may change depending on where you apply. The fee is usually between €10 and €20. Make sure you have the right way to pay, because some places only take cash or cards.
Step 5: Wait for it to be processed
You will have to wait for your application to be processed after you send it in with the necessary paperwork and payment. You can usually get your IDP on the same day, especially if you apply in person. But it’s best to apply well before your travel dates to avoid any problems at the last minute.
Step 6: Get Your IDP
You will get your International Driving Permit after it has been processed. Make sure that all the information is correct and matches what is on your driving licence. If there are any mistakes, get in touch with the issuing authority right away to fix them.
Things to Keep in Mind
Validity: Keep in mind that the IDP is only good when you show it with your Irish driving licence. It does not take the place of your driving licence.
Renewal: If your IDP runs out while you’re abroad, you might not be able to renew it from outside of Ireland. Before you leave, it’s best to apply for a new one.
Driving Rules: Learn about the driving laws in the country you want to visit. Every country has its own laws and rules, which may be very different from those in Ireland.
Questions that are often asked
Is it okay to use my IDP in the UK? No, Irish citizens don’t need an IDP to drive in the UK. A valid Irish driving licence is enough.
How long does it take to get an IDP? You might get your IDP the same day if you apply in person. Depending on how long it takes to process, online applications may take longer.
Do you need an IDP to rent a car? It is a good idea to do this, as many rental companies require it, especially in countries where it is the law.
If I lose my IDP while I’m away, what should I do? If you lose your IDP, get in touch with the nearest Irish embassy or consulate for help. They can tell you how to get a new one.
Final Thoughts
Getting an International Driving Permit in Ireland is easy and can make your trip much better. Not only does it let you drive legally in other countries, but it also gives you peace of mind as you drive on new roads. You can get your IDP quickly by following the steps in this guide. Then you can travel without worrying about driving.
If you’re thinking about driving in another country, now is also a good time to make sure you have your full Irish driving licence. If you’re getting a full licence or upgrading from an Irish learner permit, make sure to plan ahead, get all the documents you need and stay up to date on the driving rules in the countries you want to visit. Have a safe trip!
