Moving to Ireland is an exciting journey full of firsts, but it also comes with its challenges, especially when it comes to adapting to the rules of the road and ensuring you obtain a local driving license. For the vibrant Brazilian community that chose Ireland as home, this process may seem somewhat different to what they are used to in Brazil. In this comprehensive article, we are here to guide you through all the steps necessary to acquire the much-desired driving license in Ireland, as well as providing insights into the latest changes to traffic laws that every Brazilian resident in the Emerald Isle should be aware of. .
Why get a driver’s license in Ireland?
You may be wondering why it is important to get a driver’s license in Ireland, especially if you already have a Brazilian driver’s license. The answer is simple: the Brazilian international driver’s license is only accepted on Irish roads for one year after your arrival in the country. If you renew your visa in Ireland, its validity may expire. Furthermore, the insurance system in Ireland differs from Brazil, and having an Irish driver’s license can be essential to ensure adequate coverage in the event of accidents or claims.
Step by step to obtain a driver’s license in Ireland
Now that you understand the importance of obtaining an Irish driver’s license, let’s go step by step to obtaining it:
- Theory Test: The first step is to prepare for the theory test. You need to study more than 600 questions about traffic situations, signs and regulations. Of these, 40 will be selected for the theory test, and you can only get 5 of them wrong. The time to perform the test is 45 minutes. You can purchase the study material, which includes a book and a DVD, on the DTT (Driver Theory Test) website.
- Theory Test Scheduling: After preparing, schedule the theory test on the DTT website. The cost to take the test is 45 euros, and you will have several dates available to choose from.
- Carrying out the Theory Test:The theoretical test consists of answering 40 multiple-choice questions on a computer. If you pass, you can proceed to the next step. If you don’t pass, you can reschedule the test and pay the 45 euros again.
- Eye Exam: After passing the theory test, you will need to take a driver’s license eye test. The cost of this exam varies from 20 to 35 euros, depending on the location where it is carried out. The exam is similar to the eye exams carried out in Brazil, with the difference that a form filled out and signed by the ophthalmologist will determine whether you will need to wear glasses when driving.
- Required Documentss: To apply for an Irish driving license, you will need the following documents:
- Original driver’s license
- Letter of Entitlement (CNH certificate)
- Two passport size photos
- Completed application form
- Submission of Documents:Send the documents mentioned above to the National Driver License Service at the specified address.
- Receiving the Wallet: After submitting the documents, your Irish driving license will be delivered to your address by post within approximately one week.
Recent changes to traffic laws in Ireland
Keeping up with recent changes to traffic laws in Ireland is essential, as these changes have a direct impact on the process of obtaining a driver’s license. Therefore, it is essential to stay informed about the latest updates, and here we highlight some of the most significant changes that deserve your attention:
- Provisional Driver’s License (Learner Permit):Previously, when you acquired a provisional Irish driving license, known as a Learner Permit, you were free to drive, with the exception of motorways. However, now, with your provisional license (which is valid for two years), you will only be allowed to drive if you have an experienced driver by your side. It is important to note that the fines for breaking these rules are severe.
- Provisional Card Requirements: To obtain a provisional license in Ireland, you must be at least 17 years of age. In addition, it is mandatory to sticker the car with the letter “L” (for Learner) on a red plate on a white background, visible on the front and rear of the vehicle. Failure to comply with these rules can result in significant fines.
- Mandatory Practical Classes:Unlike Brazil, in Ireland, it is now mandatory to take practical classes before the practical test. 12 hours of classes with regulated instructors are required for cars and 16 hours for motorcycles. However, for those who already have a driver’s license in Brazil, these hours are reduced by half.
- Simplified EDT:If you hold a full foreign driver’s license from a country outside the European Union and meet certain conditions, you can enroll in the simplified Essential Driver Training (EDT) program. This allows you to avoid part of the practical classes and reduce the waiting time between the theory test and the practical test.
- Blood Alcohol Limit:The maximum blood alcohol limit for driving has been reduced to 20 mg/100 ml in Ireland. Therefore, it is essential not to consume alcohol before driving, especially for provisional license holders, as the penalties are severe.
Conclusion
Obtaining a driving license in Ireland may seem like a complex process, but by following the steps mentioned and knowing the recent changes in traffic laws, you will be well prepared to face this challenge. Remember that having an Irish driver’s license is essential to driving legally in the country and ensuring your safety on the roads. Stay up to date on traffic laws and always remember to drive responsibly. Good luck on your journey to obtain your driving license in Ireland!
We hope this article has been informative and useful for the Brazilian community in Ireland. If you enjoyed this content and want more information about living in Ireland, feel free to follow us for more news and useful tips.
