A learner permit lets you drive on public roads, except motorways, while you learn. You need to pass the driver theory test first. A first car learner permit costs €45.
Applying for your first learner permit
You must have passed the driver theory test for that category within the previous two years. Then you need:
- An eyesight report (D502) dated within one month
- A medical report, if your situation requires one
- Proof of PPSN, proof of address (last six months) and photo ID, or a PSC with a verified MyGovID to apply online
- Proof of normal residence, if your place of birth and nationality are outside the EU/EEA, UK and Switzerland
- A CPC certificate, for bus or truck categories where required
- €45 (free at 70+)
Minimum ages
| Vehicle | Minimum age for a learner permit |
|---|---|
| Moped | 16 |
| Car | 17 |
| Truck | 18 with CPC, 21 without |
| Bus | 21 with CPC, 24 without |
Rules while you hold a permit
- Accompanied driving: car, van, truck and bus learners must always have a qualified driver beside them. That means someone who has held a full licence in the same category for at least two years. Motorcycle and moped learners (A, A1, A2, AM) and W learners are the exception.
- L plates: red L at least 15cm high on a white background, front and rear. Motorcyclists wear them on a yellow fluorescent tabard.
- No motorways, no passengers for reward, and no towing a trailer in categories B, C1, C, D1 or D.
- EDT: first-time car learners must complete 12 one-hour Essential Driver Training lessons with an approved instructor.
- Six-month rule: you must hold a first permit for six months before you can sit the test. Code 991 on the permit shows this.
Renewing a learner permit
You can renew up to three months before expiry, online or at a centre, for €45. The length of the new permit depends on how many you have had:
| Permit | Length | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| First or second | 2 years | None |
| Third or later | 2 years | Evidence you failed a driving test in the previous two years |
| Third or later | 1 year | Evidence you have applied for, or have a date for, a driving test |
This is why people on a third permit need to book a test early. You do not need a valid permit, or all EDT lessons done, to apply for the test. Read more about the third-permit rule and how to book your driving test.
Hold a full licence from a non-exchange country?
You still need a learner permit, but you may qualify for reduced EDT (at least 6 lessons instead of 12) and an exemption from the six-month wait. See Exchange a foreign licence.
Where to go
Popular centres: Santry, Leopardstown, Citywest, Clarehall, Cork City, Galway, Limerick, Waterford, Kilkenny, Athlone, Sligo, Letterkenny, Drogheda, Tralee. All 34 centres.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a learner permit in Ireland?
€45 for a first permit or a renewal. Replacements and adding a category cost €35.
Do I need an eyesight test for a learner permit?
Yes. A first learner permit application needs an eyesight report form dated within one month.
Can I drive alone on a learner permit?
No, not in a car. Car learners must be accompanied by someone who has held a full licence in that category for at least two years.
How long is a learner permit valid?
Two years for a first or second permit. A third or later permit is two years or one year, depending on your driving test history.
How long must I wait before my driving test?
Six months from when you got your first learner permit in that category, plus completed EDT for cars.
Official source: www.ndls.ie/learner-driver/my-first-learner-permit.html. Fees and rules checked 2 October 2026. If anything differs, the NDLS website takes priority.