You need a Learner Driving Permit if you want to learn to drive on a public road or to take a driving test. Once you pass your test you can then apply for a full driving licence.
You can apply for 3 or more Learner Driving Permits:
Note: Learner Driving Permits replace the old Provisional Driving Licence system. However, existing Provisional Licences are still valid until they expire.
Apply for your First Learner Permit
A Learner Permit is valid for 2 years only. To apply for your first permit, follow these steps:
Step 1: Get a Driving Theory Test Certificate
To get a Driving Theory Test Certificate, you must pass the Driving Theory Test.
To sit the test, contact the Driver Theory Test Service.
Step 2: Complete Eyesight Certificate D502
This document certifies that your eyesight is adequate for driving, and is required for any change in eyesight for all permits and licences.
To complete the form, arrange an appointment with a registered optician or a doctor to conduct an eye test. He/she will then complete the form. The certificate is then valid for one month.
Step 3: Complete the Medical Report form D501
This document certifies that you are fit to drive.
You only need to complete a Medical Report D501 if:
- You are over 70 or will be 70 on the day your licence is issued.
- You answer ‘Yes’ to any of the medical questions on Application Form D201 below.
- You require a licence for a category of vehicle other than an ordinary car. View a list of all licence categories.
To complete the form, make an appointment with a doctor. He/she will complete the form for you.
Step 4: Complete the Learner Driving Permit Application Form D201
The Learner Driving Permit Application Form D201 is available from public libraries and Garda Stations.
Alternatively contact us at the address below and we will send you form D201.
Step 5: Return all documentation to us
Send all the above documentation back to us at the address below.
Please also enclose the following:
- Proof of your identity. This could include your:
- Original birth certificate
- Original passport
- Original certificate of registration from the Garda National Immigration Bureau
- Two identical recent passport type photos, signed by you on the reverse.
- A cheque or postal order for €15.00, made payable to ‘Dublin City Council’.
Do not enclose cash.
Step 6: We will send you your Learner Driving Permit
You will receive your Learner Driving Permit by post within 5 working days.
Apply for your Second Learner Permit
A Learner Permit is valid for 2 years only. To apply for your second permit, follow these steps:
Step 1: Complete the Learner Driving Permit Application Form D201
The Learner Driving Permit Application Form D201 is available from public libraries and Garda Stations.
Alternatively contact us at the address below and we will send you form D201.
Step 2: Return all documentation to us
Send the application form back to us at the address below.
Please also enclose the following:
Do not enclose cash.
Step 3: We will send you your Learner Driving Permit
You will receive your Learner Driving Permit by post within 5 working days.
Apply for your Third (or subsequent) Learner Permit
A Learner Permit is valid for 2 years only. To apply for your third permit, follow these steps:
Step 1: Complete the Learner Driving Permit Application Form D201
The Learner Driving Permit Application Form D201 is available from public libraries and Garda Stations.
Alternatively contact us at the address below and we will send you form D201.
Step 2: Return all documentation to us
Send the application form back to us at the address below.
Please also enclose the following:
- Your previous Learner Driving Permit. Find out what to do if your Learner Permit has been lost or stolen.
- A ‘Certificate of Test Failure’ dated within the last 2 years that states you have taken but failed a driving test OR A letter from the Department of Transport that states you have applied for a driving test (but are still on a waiting list) The letter must state the date of your next test.
- Two recent identical passport type photos, signed by you on the reverse.
- A cheque or postal order for €15.00, made payable to ‘Dublin City Council’. Do not enclose cash.
Step 3: We will send you your Learner Driving Permit
You will receive your Learner Driving Permit by post within 5 working days.