Driving Licence Codes in Ireland – What You Need to Know
If you’re thinking about getting behind the wheel in the Republic of Ireland, the first thing you’ll encounter is a string of letters and numbers on your licence. Those are driving licence codes, and they tell the authorities (and anyone who looks at your licence) what vehicles you’re legally allowed to operate. In this post you’ll discover:
- What each code means
- How the codes are displayed on your licence
- Which additional endorsements you might need
- The steps you must follow to add a new code
- Frequently asked questions that clear up the most common doubts
All of this is presented in a straightforward, second‑person style so you can easily check whether you’re qualified for the vehicle you want to drive.
1. The Main Licence Categories – Quick Reference Table
| Code | Vehicle Type | Minimum Age* | Typical Use | Key Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | Motorcycles (any engine size) | 24 (or 21 with an approved training course) | Two‑wheelers, scooters, mopeds | Must have passed a full motorcycle test |
| A1 | Light motorcycles up to 125 cc, 11 kW | 17 | Small bikes, scooters | Engine ≤ 125 cc, power ≤ 11 kW |
| A2 | Medium motorcycles up to 35 kW | 19 | Mid‑size bikes | Power ≤ 35 kW, power/weight ratio ≤ 0.2 kW/kg |
| B | Cars, vans & light trucks ≤ 3 500 kg, ≤ 8 seats | 17 | Most passenger cars | Must not tow a trailer > 750 kg (unless B+E) |
| BE | B‑category vehicle + trailer > 750 kg (combined ≤ 4 250 kg) | 17 | Car + large caravan | Requires a B licence first |
| C | Large goods vehicles > 3 500 kg | 21 (or 18 with CPC) | Trucks, lorries | Requires full C test |
| CE | C‑category vehicle + trailer > 750 kg | 21 (or 18 with CPC) | Articulated lorries | Requires a C licence first |
| D | Buses with > 8 passenger seats | 24 (or 21 with CPC) | Public transport buses | Requires full D test |
| DE | D‑category vehicle + trailer > 750 kg | 24 (or 21 with CPC) | Bus + large trailer | Requires a D licence first |
| F | Agricultural tractors | 16 | Farm tractors | Not valid on public roads without a separate road licence |
| G | Mopeds up to 50 cc, ≤ 4 kW | 16 | Small two‑wheelers | Must wear a helmet; limited speed |
* Minimum age is the legal age you must have reached before you can apply for the relevant test. Some categories allow a lower age if you complete an approved training scheme or hold a CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence).
2. How the Codes Appear on Your Irish Driving Licence
Your licence card contains a four‑character field (e.g., “B1E”) that lists the categories you currently hold. When you add a new entitlement, the letter is simply appended. For example:
- B – you can drive a standard car.
- BE – you can now tow a larger trailer.
- A2 – you’re licensed for medium‑size motorcycles.
If you have a restriction (e.g., you must wear glasses), a separate “R” field will show the condition, but the main codes remain unchanged.
3. Adding a New Licence Code – Step‑by‑Step Checklist
Below is a practical list you can follow the next time you decide to expand your driving rights:
- Check Eligibility – Verify age, medical fitness, and any prerequisite licences (e.g., you need a full B before you can apply for BE).
- Complete the Required Training – Some categories (A, C, D) require a minimum number of classroom hours and practical lessons.
- Book the Theory Test – The Driver Theory Test is mandatory for every new category. Use the official Road Safety Authority (RSA) website to schedule.
- Pass the Practical Test – After succeeding in theory, book the practical exam relevant to your category (motorcycle, car, lorry, etc.).
- Submit a Licence Application – Fill out the Form D 156 (or the online equivalent) and pay the appropriate fee. Attach your test pass certificates.
- Receive Your Updated Licence – The RSA will issue a new card within a few weeks, showing the added code.
Tip: Keep a copy of all your test certificates; they may be required if you need to re‑apply after a lapse.
4. Common Endorsements & Restrictions
You might see additional letters on your licence that are not categories but rather endorsements. The most frequent ones include:
| Endorsement | Meaning | Typical Reason |
|---|---|---|
| R | Restricted glasses/contact lenses | Vision requirement |
| D | Daytime driving only | Visual impairment |
| I | Instrument rating (for aircraft, irrelevant to road) | N/A |
| M | Motorbike only (no car) | Category A holder without B |
| P | Probationary licence (first 2 years) | New drivers |
If an endorsement appears, you must comply with it each time you drive, or you risk a fine and penalty points.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I need a separate licence for a scooter?
A: Scooters up to 50 cc and 4 kW are covered by Category AM (not listed above). If you already have a full Category B licence, you can ride a scooter without an extra test, but you must be at least 16 years old.
Q2: Can I drive a truck with a Category B licence?
A: No. Trucks over 3 500 kg require Category C (or C1 for 3 500 kg–7 500 kg). You’ll need to complete the appropriate training and tests.
Q3: What’s the difference between A and A2?
A: A is the unrestricted motorcycle licence (no power limit). A2 caps power at 35 kW and is usually the stepping‑stone after A1. To progress from A2 to A, you must hold the A2 for at least two years or complete an additional training module.
Q4: I’m 18 and want to drive a bus. Is that possible?
A: Only if you hold a CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) and meet the age exception (21 with CPC). Otherwise, the minimum age for Category D is 24.
Q5: How long does a licence stay valid after I add a new code?
A: The licence itself is valid for 10 years (or 5 years for drivers over 70). The added code remains on the licence for the entire validity period unless you lose or surrender the licence.
Q6: I’m moving to Ireland from abroad. Do my existing licence codes transfer?
A: If you hold a licence from another EU/EEA country, you can exchange it for an Irish licence without retaking tests (subject to verification). Non‑EU licences usually require you to pass the Irish theory and practical tests for each category you want.
6. Bottom Line – Keep Your Licence Up‑to‑Date
Understanding the codes on your Irish driving licence empowers you to:
- Choose the right vehicle for work or leisure
- Avoid inadvertent violations that could lead to fines or points
- Plan a clear pathway for upgrading your entitlements (e.g., from A1 to A)
Take a moment now to check which letters appear on your licence, compare them against the table above, and decide if you need to add a new code. The Road Safety Authority website provides up‑to‑date forms, test schedules, and fee information, making the whole process as smooth as possible.
Remember: every new code you earn broadens your mobility, but it also brings added responsibility. Drive safely, keep your licence current, and enjoy the freedom of the Irish roads!