Buy a Driving Licence Online
A driving license is legally valid document that permits a person to drive motor vehicles. In England, Scotland and Wales, it is issued by the DVLA (or DVA in Northern Ireland).
Online driver licensing services are now available. They include renewing a license or changing the address details, as well as ordering duplicate licences.
How to apply for a driver's licence in Northern Ireland
If you're driving a vehicle in Northern Ireland, you must possess a valid driver's license. The Road Traffic Act of 1988 requires this. You are able to apply for a licence at your local NDLS center or online. The process is simple and straightforward.
You will receive an email confirmation once you have submitted your application. This will include your reference number as well as your address. Express Driving License will assist you when submitting medical or eyesight reports, or other documents. This receipt can also be useful in case you need to call the NDLS or make payments in the near future.
The NDLS site also offers medical fitness guidelines and forms for drivers who suffer from certain driving or health conditions. In certain situations you may be required to take a test again if you suffer from a medical condition that could affect your driving. It is also recommended to take a look at the driving information leaflets and speak with your doctor should you have any concerns about your health or driving.
License holders from EU countries and EEA countries which have an agreement for mutual recognition with Ireland can swap their licences in exchange for an Irish licence. You can find the list of recognized states on the NDLS website. Frontier workers (such as those who work temporarily for a company in the Republic of Ireland or the UK) are not required to exchange their licences when they return frequently and are not registered as resident elsewhere.
The NI driving licence is a document with 8 digits that can identify the driver. The first two digits are the vehicle class and the next six digits are unique serial numbers. The last two numbers are a computer-generated check number that is increased by 1 for every new licence issued. Each license holder is given a unique driving permit number, which must be displayed on the windscreen.
The NDLS has been working on new digital driver licensing systems that allow you to apply for your licence online. These services include the capability to renew your licence or change your address and request a duplicate license. It is also possible to book a theory test or book an appointment at your local NDLS centre online. Previously, these services were only accessible in person.
Driving licence requirements in Northern Ireland
A driving licence is a legal document that recognizes a person as a driver as in allowing them to drive motor vehicles on public roads. In the UK driving licences is managed by the DVLA, and in Northern Ireland by the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA). The licence consists of two parts: a plastic photocard and a paper counterpart. The photocard contains your signature and photo. The paper counterpart contains information about you including your driving record. Both documents should be kept together. You must carry your license on you at all times while driving.
In Northern Ireland, drivers drive on the left-hand side of the road. Seat belts are required for all occupants and children younger than three years old must be secured in booster or child seats. It is unlawful to use a mobile phone while driving, unless you are using it hands-free. Always keep to the speed limit, and pay attention to the road.
You must be at least 16 years old to be eligible for a Northern Ireland driving license. Before you can take your test for driving proficiency you must pass the theory test and the hazard perception test. It is recommended to take 20-40 hours of driving lessons to feel confident enough to pass the test. You can also practise with free online resources, such as a downloadable practice theory test and hazard perception video. Before taking your driving test, it is recommended that you also read the Highway Code.
If you're a citizen of an other EU country, you can swap your driver's licence in exchange to an Irish licence in certain situations. It is important to ensure that you are aware of the rules specific to your country on the NDLS site. You should also have an original passport as well as evidence of residency.
Northern Ireland driving licences are similar to the UK's and include a photo of the driver and the date of expiry. The first digit on the licence is different from the one used in GB. It indicates the category of driving. The next number identifies the country where the licence was issued, and the last two numbers are a computer check number.
Fees for a Northern Ireland driving licence
The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) charges fees for a variety of driving licence services. They include renewal, exchanges, and replacements. You can pay cash, with a cheque or by postal order. Cheques must be made payable to DVA. If you pay by cheque or postal order include your name and the driver's number (if known) on the reverse of the payment method. DVA also offers the Secure Document Return service, which will send your documents with Royal Mail special delivery. This will cost you an additional PS7.
In Northern Ireland, you must carry at all times a valid driving license and proof of insurance. You must also wear a seatbelt, and follow speed limits. The limit for driving under the influence of alcohol is 20mg per 100ml blood or 27mg for every 100ml of breath if are a learner permit holder or a new full driver.
Renewals can be done online, by mail or in person. You can update your address and photo online. It's a fast and easy service. You can determine whether you have penalty points on your driving licence. You can even do an online vehicle check for free. You have to complete a form and return it to Verifile to be able to use this service.
You must first complete six EDT lessons if are a new driver. You must also pass a theory test as well as a practical driving test to obtain your driver licence. You must also show your identity and pass a medical exam. You also have to pay a fee to apply for your licence.
Northern Ireland charges higher fees for a licence than Great Britain. The Department of Environment launched a consultation to reduce these costs. In addition to reducing the cost of a driving license as well as the DVA will also review the fees for driving tests.
The fees for a driving licence in Northern Island depend on the type of licence you hold and whether you're changing it online or by post. To renew your driving licence online with the DVLA you must have a UK National Insurance number or passport. To be eligible to apply online, you must also have an address in the UK and not be disqualified from driving. If you wish to change the address or photo on your driving license, then you have to pay PS14 online or PS17 via post.
Where to apply for your driving license in Northern Ireland
Anyone who wants to drive in Northern Ireland must carry a valid driving license at all times while driving. The laws for driving in Northern Ireland are similar to those in the UK and Europe. However there are some distinctions. For instance, speed and distance limits are displayed in kilometres. Drivers are required to wear seatbelts. Drivers must also carry an account for breakdowns and motor insurance papers for their vehicle. Drivers must be aware of their driving age minimum. 17 years for automobiles, 18 years for minibuses, and 24 years for large vehicles, such as buses).
The form for applying for a driving licence is available from the NDLS website or any main Post Office branch. The fee is PS10 and includes the return of supporting documentation via second class mail. It is recommended to mail an unpaid Royal Mail Special Delivery envelope to ensure that your documents arrive safely. DVA is not accountable for any delays or loss that might result of sending the application by ordinary mail.
If you are applying for a new licence you must attach a current medical report on the DL2 application form. This will verify your ability to drive. If you are unsure about your fitness, you should consult your physician. It is your responsibility to follow your doctor's advice if you are told not to drive.
Exchange of a valid licence is possible when the country has an exchange agreement with NDLS. The process of exchange an international licence state can take as long as three months, but you'll still have a valid licence while the NDLS is processing your application.
In the case of an European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) licence, you are only allowed to exchange your licence to an Irish licence after the validity period indicated at 4b on the plastic card portion of your licence has passed. You will receive an invoice when you apply for the NDLS and should be carried at all times.