New Driver Restrictions: What You Need to Know

New Driver Restrictions: What You Need to Know

If you’re considering getting your driver’s license in Ireland, you’re probably wondering how much the full driving test costs and what happens once you pass. It’s an exciting time, but it’s important to understand the process and the costs involved before you get behind the wheel.

The Full Driving Test in Ireland

The full driving test in Ireland consists of two parts: a theory test and a practical test. The theory test covers your knowledge of the rules of the road, traffic signs, and safe driving practices. It consists of 50 multiple choice questions and costs €45. You must pass this test before you can take the practical test.

The practical test, also known as the driving test, assesses your driving skills and techniques. It includes a pre-test briefing, a driving test, and a post-test debrief. The test takes approximately 40 minutes and costs €85. You must have held a learner permit for at least six months before you are eligible to take the practical test.

The theory test is conducted at a testing center, while the practical test takes place on the roads with a driving tester. The practical test includes a number of exercises that you must complete, such as a vehicle safety check, a driving test on the roads, and a parking exercise. The driving tester will also observe your driving skills and techniques, including your ability to control the car, your observation skills, and your road positioning.

Can I Drive Once I Pass My Test?

Once you pass both the theory and practical tests, you’ll be issued a full driver’s license. This allows you to drive anywhere in Ireland without supervision. However, there are a few restrictions for new drivers.

For the first two years after you receive your license, you are considered a “new driver.” During this time, you are subject to certain restrictions, including:

  • A blood alcohol limit of 20 milligrams per 100 milliliters of blood (mg/100ml)
  • A maximum speed limit of 80 km/h on national roads and 100 km/h on motorways
  • A prohibition on driving with more than one passenger under the age of 17 in the car, unless accompanied by a qualified supervising driver
  • These restrictions are in place to help ensure the safety of new drivers as they gain experience behind the wheel. After two years, these restrictions will be lifted and you’ll be able to drive like any other licensed driver in Ireland.

Learning to Drive with A New Driver

If you’re ready to start the process of getting your driver’s license, A New Driver can help. We offer a range of driving lessons and courses to suit your needs, whether you’re a complete beginner or just need to brush up on your skills. Our experienced instructors will provide you with the knowledge and confidence you need to pass your driving test and become a safe, responsible driver.

Our lessons are designed to be convenient and flexible, so you can fit them into your schedule. We offer both manual and automatic transmission lessons, as well as specialized courses for nervous or anxious drivers.

Before you can take the practical test, you’ll need to complete a certain number of hours of driving lessons and pass a driving test. The number of hours required varies depending on your age and experience. If you’re under the age of 17, you’ll need to complete a minimum of 12 hours of driving lessons. If you’re over the age of 17, you’ll need to complete a minimum of 6 hours of driving lessons.

In addition to driving lessons, it’s important to practice driving with a qualified supervising driver. This will give you the opportunity to gain real-world experience and build up your confidence on the roads. A qualified supervising driver is someone who has held a full driver’s license for at least two years and is at least 25 years old.

Before you can take the practical test, you’ll also need to pass a driving test. This test, also known as the “pretest,” is similar to the actual driving test and is designed to assess your readiness. It includes a vehicle safety check, a driving test on the roads, and a parking exercise. If you pass the pretest, you’ll be eligible to take the practical test.

Conclusion

The full driving test in Ireland consists of a theory test and a practical test. The theory test costs €45 and the practical test costs €85. Before you can take the practical test, you’ll need to complete a certain number of hours of driving lessons and pass a driving test. Once you pass both tests, you’ll be issued a full driver’s license and can drive anywhere in Ireland. However, new drivers are subject to certain restrictions for the first two years, including a lower blood alcohol limit and a maximum speed limit. If you’re ready to start learning to drive, A New Driver can help you every step of the way. So, if you want to learn driving, you can come to us.