Full Irish Driver’s License

 

🎉 Apply for Your Full Irish Driver’s License: Step-by-Step Guide

[caption id="attachment_21633" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Irish Driver License for Sale[/caption]

Congratulations! If you’ve passed your practical driving test, it’s time to apply for your full Irish driver's license. This is the final step in becoming a fully licensed driver in Ireland.

 

This guide walks you through:

 

✅ What you need after passing your test
✅ How to apply online or in person
✅ Required documents
✅ Fees and processing times

 

✅ Step 1: You Must Have Passed Your Practical Driving Test

After successfully passing your practical driving test, your examiner will give you a test pass certificate. This is not your full license — it allows you to legally apply for your full license.

 

You must apply within 6 months of receiving your test certificate, or you may have to retake the test.

 

📋 Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

Before applying, make sure you have the following:

 

Document	Description
✅ Driving Test Pass Certificate	Given by the examiner on test day
✅ Learner Permit (if applicable)	Or proof that you held one
✅ Eyesight Test Certificate	Usually completed at the NDLS office
✅ Identity Documents**	Passport or national ID card
✅ PPS Number	Required for all applications
✅ Proof of Address	Utility bill, bank statement, etc.
✅ Medical Certificate (if required)**	For certain categories (e.g., commercial drivers)

 

💡 Tip: Make sure your PPS number is linked to your NDLS account before applying.

🖥️ Step 3: Apply Online or In Person

You can apply for your full driver’s license either online or at a National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) centre.

 

Option A: Apply Online (Most Convenient)

Go to the official RSA website: 🔗 Apply for a Full Irish Driver's License Online

 

Steps:

1. Visit the AA Ireland NDLS portal
2. Log in with your MyAA account or create one
3. Choose Apply for Full License.
4. Upload or confirm your documents
5. Pay the fee (€55 as of 2025)
6. Submit your application

 

Your license will be mailed to your registered address.

 

Option B: Apply In Person at an NDLS Office

If you prefer to apply in person or need help with the process, visit any NDLS office nationwide.

 

Steps:

1. Book an appointment online at ndls.ie
2. Bring all required documents
3. Complete the application form at the office
4. Pay the fee (usually €55)
5. Get your photo taken and submit everything

 

The license will be mailed to you within up to 3 weeks.

 

💰 Step 4: Pay the License Fee

Fee Type	Cost
Full Irish Driver’s License	€55 (valid for up to 10 years)
Renewal (after age 70)**	Varies – check with NDLS

 

Payment methods accepted:

• Credit/debit card (online or in office)
• Cash (only at NDLS offices)
• Bank transfer (in some cases)

 

📬 Step 5: Wait for Your License to Arrive

Once processed, your full Irish driver’s license will be sent to your home address via post.

 

Processing Time	Estimated Delivery
Standard	Up to3 weeks
Expedited (if available)	5–7 working days

 

Until you receive your license, you're allowed to drive legally using your driving test pass certificate and valid learner permit.

 

🧾 What’s Included in Your Full Irish Driver’s License?

Your new license includes:

 

Section	Details
Photo & Personal Info	Name, date of birth, address
License Category	e.g., B (car), A (motorcycle), W (agricultural)
Restrictions (if any)	Glasses, medical conditions, etc.
Expiry Date	Typically, 10 years from the issue date
Security Features	Holograms, watermarks, and digital security codes

 

You’ll also receive a plastic photocard license — there is no longer a paper counterpart.

 

🚗 Important Notes After Receiving Your License

Tip	Why It Matters
Keep your license secure	Don’t carry it unless needed
Update your details if you move	Notify NDLS within 14 days of address change
Report lost or stolen licenses immediately	Prevent fraud or misuse
Check the expiration date	Renew before expiry to avoid penalties
Be ready to present when stopped	Gardaí may ask to see your license