Are you a non-national driver looking to drive in Ireland?
It’s possible to exchange a driving licence issued by an EU member state or an EEA member state (Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland) for an Irish driving licence. It is also possible to exchange a driving licence issued by certain recognised states for an Irish driving licence: these states are Australia, Gibraltar, Guernsey, Isle of Man, Japan, Jersey, South Africa, South Korea, Switzerland, New Zealand and Taiwan.
Non EU/EEA Driver
As a visitor to Ireland you can drive on a driving licence from any state outside the EU/EEA for up to a year as long as the driving licence is current and valid. However, when you take up ‘normal residence’ in Ireland you must either exchange your driving licence or apply for a driving licence in Ireland. You are considered to be normally resident in Ireland if you usually live here for at least 185 days in each calendar year.
Gaining an Irish Licence
If you are from a non-EU/EEA country, to gain an Irish licence you will need to complete a driver theory test, apply for a driver’s licence, and then completing your driving test in Ireland. Here at the BDA we offer a guide to the steps involved in that process.
As you prepare to take your driving test, it makes sense to learn how to drive safely on Irish roads and in accordance with Irish law. Our private practice track here at the Bantry Driving Academy in West Cork’s Mealagh Valley is a perfect place to learn. You’ll have privacy and helpful tuition here on the track before we set out onto the public roads and test routes.
To find out more, contact Mary on 027 56464 or use the website contact form to get in touch.
