If you want to stay in Ireland for more than a year, it might be a good idea to get an Irish driver’s license so that you can drive in the country. However, if you only want to stay a few days, know that car rental companies accept the Brazilian license, if you are up to date.
In addition to being one more option for getting around, a driver’s license can help you get some jobs, as some job openings give preference to those who have a license to drive. So if you plan to stay longer than six months on the Emerald Isle, consider getting your Irish driver’s license.
Check out, therefore, the step by step to get your driving license in Ireland.
1st Step – Theoretical test
As in Brazil, the first step to get your driver’s license in Ireland is to take a theoretical test. However, in the European country you do not need to take a course.
You should get the material – Driver Theory Test – and study on your own. You can get this material on some sites like DTT Store, or Irish Theory Test. You can also download the iTheory Driving Test Ireland app.
The test consists of five questions and you can only miss five of them, otherwise you will not be qualified.
When you think you are ready to take the test, you can schedule your test on the DTT website. Choose the time and place. Currently, the test fee is €45. If you want to get the license for more than one category (motorcycle and car, for example), then you need to schedule a test for each category.
On the day of the test, you will have to bring your ID and two 35×45 photos (same as those in your passport). The result comes out on the same day, a few minutes after the exam.
2nd Step – Practical test
However, when you pass the theoretical test, as this will be your first driver’s license in Ireland, you are able to request a provisional license – Learner Permit. The request must be made within two years after passing the theoretical test.
To apply for your provisional license, go to the NDLS website and schedule an appointment. You will need to take.
- Completed D201 Form Certificate
- of Passing Theory Test
- Your PPS Personal Public Service Number
- D502 Certificate – approval from an ophthalmologist
- Proof of Address – issued no later than six months
- Identity Card – Passport is the best document for foreigners
- Document proving your residency status – IRP or passport
The D502 certificate is obtained from an ophthalmologist. You need to make an appointment with any ophthalmologist in Ireland and explain that you need this form to drive.
To schedule your practical test and apply for a permanent driver’s license in Ireland, you must have at least six months of a provisional license. However, if you have a valid driver’s license in Brazil, you can ask for an exception to the six-month rule.
Contact the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and send:
- Letter explaining why you need the
- original Brazilian CNH exemption (will be returned after analysis)
- Detran document that proves your situation
Approval of this exception is usually done in less than one week.
If you do not get this exception, you will have to follow the normal procedures. After six months of provisional license, with the exception document in hand, you must schedule the practical test. On the appointed day and time, you must come to the office where the test was scheduled for the exam.
The exam can be taken in your own vehicle, if you have one. The appraiser will ask you a few questions about how the car works and the mechanics, and then he’ll take you out for a drive around town.
Drive carefully
Now that you know how to get your driver’s license in Ireland, you just have to get ready and acquire this document, which can guarantee you more freedom of movement in the country and even help you to get better jobs.
