About the Learner Permit


About the Learner Permit

A learner permit is issued to drivers who are learning to drive.

To apply for a learner permit you must be able to demonstrate that you are normally resident in Ireland; this generally means that you live here at least 185 days each calendar year because of work or personal ties. If you are studying or working abroad you may still be considered normally resident in Ireland provided you return here regularly. Where a person lives some part of the year outside of Ireland the question of personal, family and community ties helps determine whether or not you are normally resident. You can apply to renew a learner permit up to three months before the expiry date of your learner permit. If your licence has expired for five years or more you must start the application process afresh and take a driver theory test, mandatory driving lessons and a driving test.

If you are an applicant for a learner permit you will be required to verify your identity as part of the face to face application process in an NDLS centre. This means that you will have to submit documentation to prove your identity, your address & your PPSN, as well as confirmation of your country of birth/residency entitlement