Do I need to get an Irish driver\u2019s licence?<\/h2>\nEU & EEA Licences<\/h3>\n
Drivers with an EU or EEA member state licence need never change to an Irish licence. If they wish to exchange their licence for an Irish one, they must do so within 10 years of their driver\u2019s licence expiring.<\/p>\n
Other Licences<\/h3>\n
Visitors to Ireland from outside the EU or EEA can drive on a licence from their own country for up to a year, provided that it is current and valid. Once you are \u2018normally resident\u2019 in Ireland \u2013 living here at least 185 days out of each calendar year \u2013 you are obliged to exchange your driver\u2019s licence for an Irish one, or apply for a driving licence in Ireland.<\/p>\n
If you hold a licence from a \u2018recognised state\u2019, you can exchange your current driver\u2019s licence for an Irish one. Currently, the recognised states are:<\/p>\n You can exchange your licence for up to one year after it expires. When you apply, you\u2019ll need:<\/p>\n Visitors from other countries may drive on Irish roads under their own licence for 12 months. After this period, you\u2019ll need to apply for an Irish licence by completing the full driver licensing procedure. You must first pass a driver theory test<\/a> before applying for a learner permit<\/a>. This allows you to take a course in Essential Driver Training<\/a>. If you pass the test at the end of this course, you can apply for a full Irish driving licence.<\/p>\n The Essential Driver Training course comprises 12, one-hour lessons. It is mandatory to take these lessons and hold your Learner Permit for six months before you apply for your driving test.<\/p>\n It is illegal to drive a vehicle that has not been taxed and insured in the Republic.<\/p>\n The motor tax rate you pay will depend on the age of your vehicle. Vehicles built before July 2008 are assessed on the size of their engines. Those built after that date are assessed on their CO2 emissions \u2013 the more your car emits, the more it will cost to tax. Over time, it pays to have a newer, well-serviced car. You can tax your vehicle online<\/a>.<\/p>\n You must insure your car before you can legally drive it on Irish roads. This must at least cover third-party expenses, although comprehensive cover is the best option \u2013 it covers you and any other people who might be involved in a road incident.<\/p>\n\n\n![\"Irish](\"https:\/\/cdn.dublin.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/1.3.4_Live-driving-licences_664x400.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nHow do I buy a licence?<\/h2>\n
Recognised states<\/h3>\n
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Other countries<\/h3>\n
Vehicle tax and insurance<\/h2>\n
Motor tax<\/h3>\n
Car insurance<\/h3>\n