What the changes mean: How drivers get licence now
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- Learner drivers must pass the Driver Theory Test to get a learner permit. The test costs €35.60 and includes questions on rules of the road, risk perception, technical aspects of the car and driving behaviour.
- Those who pass get a driver theory test certificate. This is valid for two years, meaning the test can be taken at 15 years.
- A learner permit is a licence which allows inexperienced drivers to learn to drive and to apply for a driving test. A person must be aged 17 years to apply, and it is valid for two years. It costs €15.
- Permit holders must be accompanied by a person with a full licence for at least two years. They must display 'L' plates and cannot drive on a motorway.
- Candidates must wait six months after receiving their learner permit before applying to sit the driving test. The test for driving a car costs €75.
How they will get it in future
Learner drivers will still have to pass the theory test before getting a learner permit, and wait six months before applying to sit the driving test.
They will also have to complete a number of hours of training given by an approved driving instructor.
The RSA has suggested that 20 hours' training could be needed. This could cost up to €700.
An approved syllabus from the Road Safety Authority would also have to be completed. This will include coping with road hazards and will set out the responsibilities of drivers.
A log-book showing the number of hours spent practising would also have to be kept. This would be filled in by the accompanying driver.
Measures that have been ruled out include imposing curfews and banning the carrying of passengers by inexperienced drivers.
Irish Independent
