Irish Driving Licence in Galway – The Complete Guide for 2025
If you’ve recently moved to Galway, are planning to stay for a few months, or simply need to replace a lost licence, you’ll quickly discover that getting (or renewing) an Irish driving licence isn’t as daunting as it first appears. This post walks you through everything you need to know – from eligibility and required paperwork to fees, testing locations, and tips for passing the practical exam – all written in a friendly, second‑person voice so you can follow along step by step.
1. Why a Galway Driving Licence Matters
| Reason | What It Gives You | How It Impacts Daily Life |
|---|---|---|
| Legal requirement | The right to drive a car, motorcycle, or moped on Irish roads | Avoid fines, insurance issues, and court penalties |
| Insurance eligibility | Most insurers require a valid Irish licence before issuing a policy | Lower premiums if you have a clean Irish driving record |
| Employment | Many jobs (delivery, trades, tourism) list a full Irish licence as a prerequisite | Increases job prospects and earning potential |
| EU mobility | An Irish licence is recognised throughout the EU | Easy to drive in Spain, Italy, France, etc., without extra paperwork |
Even if you already hold a licence from another EU country, the Irish authorities will ask you to exchange it for an Irish one within six months of taking up residence in Galway. This ensures you’re covered under Irish road‑safety legislation and that your driving record is linked to the national database.
2. Who Can Apply?
| Category | Minimum Age | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Car (Category B) | 17 (learner) / 18 (full licence) | Pass Theory & Practical tests |
| Motorcycle (Category A) | 16 (learner) / 20 (A1) / 24 (A) | Separate tests for each class |
| Moped (Category AM) | 16 | Theory test only |
| Commercial (Category C, D, etc.) | 21 (C) / 24 (D) | Additional medical fitness certificates |
If you are non‑resident (e.g., a tourist on a short stay) you can still apply for a temporary learner permit but you cannot take the full licence test until you have an address in the Republic of Ireland.
3. Step‑by‑Step: How to Get Your Irish Licence in Galway
Below is a concise checklist you can print out and tick off as you progress.
3.1 Gather Your Documents
| Document | Why It’s Needed | How to Obtain |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Identity (Passport / National ID) | Verifies who you are | Existing passport or ID card |
| Proof of Address (Utility Bill, Bank Statement, Rent Agreement) | Confirms Galway residence | Must be dated within the last 3 months |
| PPS Number | Links licence to your tax/health records | Apply at a Social Welfare office or online |
| Photographs (35mm, colour, white background) | For the licence card | Professional photo shop or digital upload via the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) portal |
| Medical Report (if applying for categories C/D or over 70) | Confirms fitness to drive | GP or approved medical practitioner |
Tip: Keep all original documents with you when you visit the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) centre; photocopies are not accepted.
3.2 Register for a Learner Permit
- Book an appointment at the Galway NDLS office (located at Ballybane, Galway City).
- Complete the application form (D201) – available online or at the centre.
- Pay the learner permit fee (€35 as of 2025).
You’ll receive a yellow learner permit valid for two years. This is your licence to practice driving under supervision.
3.3 Pass the Theory Test
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Provider | Theory Test Centre – Galway (Mervue Business Park) |
| Format | 40 multiple‑choice questions, 40 minutes |
| Pass Mark | 35 correct answers (87.5%) |
| Cost | €45 (incl. one free retake) |
| Preparation | Official Driver Theory Test Handbook + free online practice tests on the Road Safety Authority (RSA) website |
You can book the theory test up to 90 days in advance through the RSA portal. Results are issued instantly on the screen and emailed to you.
3.4 Book Your Practical Driving Test
| Test Type | Vehicle Category | Typical Waiting Time (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Car (Category B) | Standard car | 3–6 weeks (longer in peak months) |
| Motorcycle (A1, A2, A) | Bike | 4–8 weeks |
| Moped (AM) | Moped | 2–4 weeks |
How to book:
- Log into the RSA’s “Driving Test Booking” system using your learner permit number.
- Choose a test centre – the most convenient in Galway is Galway City Testing Centre (Rondo Avenue).
- Select a date and pay the test fee (€50 for car, €45 for two‑wheelers).
You’ll receive a confirmation email with the test location, time, and a list of required documents (learner permit, theory pass certificate, and a valid insurance certificate for the vehicle you’ll use).
3.5 Pass the Practical Test
The examiner will assess you on:
- Vehicle control – starting, stopping, gear changes, reverse parking
- Observations – mirror checks, blind‑spot checks, proper signalling
- Road positioning – lane discipline, distance keeping, junction handling
- Emergency stops – braking distance, control on various surfaces
If you fail, you can re‑book after 7 days. The RSA provides a detailed feedback sheet, which is invaluable for targeting weak spots.
3.6 Collect Your Full Licence
Once you pass the practical test:
- Return to the NDLS office with:
- Your learner permit (yellow) – it will be surrendered
- The Pass Certificate from the practical test
- A passport‑size photograph (if not already uploaded)
- Pay the full licence fee (€55 for a standard car licence).
Your new green Irish driving licence will be issued on the spot, valid for 10 years (or until age 70, after which renewal is required every 5 years).
4. Renewal & Replacement
| Situation | Action Required | Fee (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Licence expiring (10‑year cycle) | Apply at NDLS with updated photo, PPS, and €55 fee | €55 |
| Lost or stolen licence | Report to Gardaí, then apply for a replacement at NDLS | €45 |
| Change of address | Submit a R102 form (address change) at NDLS | No charge |
| Adding a category (e.g., adding motorcycle to a car licence) | Book a separate practical test for the new category | Varies (typically €50‑€70) |
All renewals can be processed online via the MyGov.ie portal, but you will still need to present a current photograph at the NDLS office.
5. Special Cases – EU & Non‑EU Licence Holders
| Origin | Procedure | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| EU Member State | Exchange your EU licence for an Irish one – no theory/practical test required (unless the licence is not covered by EU directives) | 6 weeks (including verification) |
| UK (pre‑2020) | Must pass the Irish theory test; practical test optional depending on licence class | 8‑10 weeks |
| Non‑EU (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia) | Must pass both Irish theory and practical test; may need to provide a translation and International Driving Permit (IDP) for the theory test | 12‑14 weeks |
If you hold a Full International Driving Permit (IDP) you can use it for a maximum of 12 months while you arrange the Irish licence.
6. Tips to Speed Up the Process
- Book the Theory Test Early – Slots fill up quickly during the summer months when many students apply.
- Carry All Original Documents – The NDLS staff will reject any application missing a single item, causing delays.
- Practice with the RSA App – The official app offers timed mock tests that mimic the real exam environment.
- Choose a Private Driving School – Many Galway schools (e.g., Micheál’s Driving Academy) have high pass rates and can schedule your practical test on the same day you finish lessons.
- Check the “Road Safety Authority – Test Centres” Map – Some centres offer early‑bird slots (7 am) that are less busy and have shorter wait times.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How long does a learner permit stay valid? | Two years from the issue date. If you haven’t passed the theory test within that period, you must apply for a new permit. |
| Can I drive a car with a motorcycle licence? | No. Each vehicle class requires its own licence (B for cars, A for motorcycles). |
| Do I need car insurance before I take the practical test? | Yes. The vehicle you use for the test must be insured for “Learner Drivers – Supervised” coverage. |
| What happens if I fail the practical test multiple times? | There is no limit to the number of attempts, but each retake requires a fresh fee. It’s advisable to take additional lessons before the next booking. |
| Can I change my photo after the licence has been issued? | Only if there has been a significant change in appearance (e.g., facial surgery) or the photo no longer meets RSA standards. |
| Is there a discount for students? | The RSA does not offer formal discounts, but many driving schools provide reduced lesson rates for full‑time students. |
| Do I need a medical report for a Category B licence? | No, unless you have a condition that could affect driving (e.g., epilepsy, diabetes requiring insulin). In those cases, a Medical Report (Form D201) must be submitted. |
8. Quick Reference Checklist (Print‑Friendly)
[ ] Verify you have a valid PPS number.
[ ] Gather: Passport, Proof of Address, Photo, PPS, Medical Report (if needed).
[ ] Book NDLS appointment (Galway centre) → Apply for learner permit.
[ ] Pay €35 learner fee → Receive yellow permit.
[ ] Study Theory Handbook + RSA practice tests.
[ ] Book Theory Test (Mervue) → Pass (≥35/40). Pay €45.
[ ] Book Practical Test (Rondo Avenue) → Pay €50.
[ ] Attend Practical Test with: learner permit, insurance, vehicle, Pass Certificate.
[ ] If successful, return to NDLS with photo & pay €55 for full licence.
[ ] Collect green licence (valid 10 years).
[ ] Set calendar reminder for renewal (10 years later) or address change.
9. Final Thoughts
Obtaining an Irish driving licence in Galway is a straightforward process once you know the steps, fees, and paperwork involved. By preparing early, keeping all documents organized, and using the resources the Road Safety Authority provides, you can move from learner to fully‑licensed driver in just a few months.
Remember, your licence is not only a legal necessity but also a ticket to greater freedom around the Wild Atlantic Way, easier commutes to work, and smoother interactions with insurers and employers. So, grab that checklist, book your theory test, and enjoy the beautiful roads of Galway with confidence.
Safe driving! 🚗💚