Learning to drive in Ireland

Step

Prepare & Apply for Theory Test

Prepare for and book your car driver theory test at theorytest.ie
The official RSA-approved theory test revision material is available online and on learning app. You can also practice sample theory test questions with ISM’s free mock theory test.

Step

Apply for your Learner’s Permit

Apply for a learner’s permit online or at any local National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) centre. Your learner permit allows you to drive on all public roads, except motorways, for the purpose of learning to drive. All car learner permit holders must be always accompanied by an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI), or someone who holds a full, valid driving licence in the same category for more than two years.

Step

Book your 12 EDT Lessons

Complete the 12 Essential Driver Training (EDT) lessons as required by the RSA under a qualified ADI instructor’s supervision. Your driving instructor will record each lesson in a logbook. The learner’s permit is valid for six months, so it’s essential to complete your lessons within this timeframe. We teach learners to drive in our fully insured and dual-controlled cars or you can use your own car with our instructor for your lessons (subject to you having the correct insurance).

Step

Apply for your Driving Test

After completing the 12 EDT lessons and your satisfied you’ve had enough driving practice, you can now apply for your driving test. Also, remember that you cannot sit a driving test until you’ve held your first learner permit for at least 6 months. We strongly recommend taking our Pre-Test Course to boost your learning and knowledge prior to the test date. Pre-test lessons focus on refining your skills and experience. Our evaluation and improvement assessments will identify your errors and help you improve your skills, abilities and confidence.

Step

Driving Test Day

With the confidence gained from our excellent pre-test sessions, you’ll be well-prepared for your driving test. Ensure your car documents are in order or hire a car from us for your driving test. Our driving instructor will accompany you to the test centre to give you the moral support you need. View the RSA tips on how to avoid your driving test cancellation on the day.

Step

Apply for your Full Driving License

Once you pass your driving test, you’ll receive a certificate of competency. Take this certificate to your nearest NDLS centre (or book your appointment on-line) to exchange it for your driving licence. Remember, this certificate is valid for two years. Congratulations!

Step

Get Advanced Training Lessons

Even after obtaining your full driving licence, you can opt for advanced training lessons to further enhance and fine-tune your driving skills. For example, the driving test does not include parallel parking, night-time or motorway driving. To become a safe driver for life, it is essential to develop good driving habits, stay informed about traffic laws, and continuously practice defensive driving techniques. Contact us to learn more about this essential two-hour advanced driving session.

FAQs

How do I book driving lessons?

You simply enter your county and area, along with your contact details. Our Customer Service team will phone you back and find a suitable driving instructor with availability to start as soon as possible or as it suits your schedule. If you are not reachable by phone, our team will email you or WhatsApp you to follow up. All our driving instructors are fully qualified, registered, Garda vetted and Insured.

When do I pay for my lessons?

Our Customer Service team will take debit or credit card payments over the phone at the time of booking your lesson(s). All card payments are processed securely to guarantee your card safety. Credit card transactions that you make over the phone have the same protection as those you make online or in person at a store.

What counties you provide lessons in?

We provide driving lessons nationwide, covering all 26 counties and all RSA Test Centre routes in Ireland. Our network of driving instructors provide both manual and automatic lessons. Lessons are subject to availability.

Do you offer weekend and evening lessons?

Yes. Our driving lessons are available seven days per week, from early morning to late in the evening. We will find the best time that suits both you and your driving instructor.

How many lessons should I book if I am a new learner?

If you have been issued your learner permit on or after 04/04/2011, you are required by law to complete 12 EDT (Essential Driver Training) lessons. These 12 car driving lessons are considered to be the minimum requirement.

Generally, learner drivers will need additional lessons to develop lifelong safe driving habits and to pass their driving test on the first attempt. Learning to drive is a unique process for each individual, and the pace depends on the learner’s existing skills, abilities, and knowledge. There’s a great saying in our industry; a learner driver should take one lesson for each year of their life!

How many lessons should I book if I have a date for a driving test?

We recommend taking a minimum of four hours of Pre-Test lessons (2 x 2hr lessons). Pre-test lessons are specialised driving sessions designed to prepare learner drivers for their practical driving test. These lessons focus on refining skills, boosting confidence, and ensuring that the driver is familiar with the test format and requirements.