There is no denying that Ireland, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, has always been a hot destination for tourists and locals alike. Its extensive road network encompasses more than 100,000 kilometers and is primarily categorized into three main types, namely motorways, primary roads, and secondary roads. Together with these three diverse road systems, the country’s road and traffic system ensures a smooth and safe journey.
The motorways are high-speed, multi-lane roads that are responsible for offering the most effective way to travel long distances. Then you have the primary roads, which form the backbone of the country’s road network because they connect major cities and towns and feature two lanes in each direction (up and down). Lastly, the secondary roads are typical single-lane roads that only cater to local traffic, offering a scenic driving experience at slower travel speeds. Additionally, unlike most European countries, driving in Ireland flows on the left-hand side of the road.
Having said that, a valid driving license is a must when driving on any of the aforementioned road networks, which is why it is crucial to always keep yours updated. That is why we have created a thorough guide containing all the essentials you need to know before you opt for a driving license renewal.
Steps to Follow For Renewal
The National Driver License Service (NDLS) in Ireland is responsible for issuing the driving license as well as handling its renewal. Users are requested to renew their licenses within three months of their expiration date, and the renewal process can easily be completed online without having to deal with prior appointments or visiting the NDLS center in person.
But, before you decide to start the online renewal process, you need to keep the following documents handy: your ‘Public Services Card’ and verified MyGovID, your proof of address (dated within the last six months), proof that you are a normal resident in Ireland (if place of birth and nationality are outside the EU), and a fully completed medical form. Once you have obtained the aforementioned supporting documents, you can start the renewal process by following the suggested steps mentioned below.
- Begin your journey by first heading over to the official website here.
- On the landing page, you will be asked to sign in with your MyGovID using your registered email address. If you do not have an account, then you will need to create one.
- Once you are signed in to your account, head over to the driving license section and proceed to renew yours by providing information about your ‘Public Services Card’.
- You will be required to fill out the renewal application form and then upload scanned supporting documents of your address proof, residential proof (optional), and medical report.
- After successfully completing the application process, you will be required to pay the application fee for the renewal. The cost will be 55 euros, which you can pay with your debit or credit card (or via Google Pay or Apple Pay). And if you are over 70 years old, then you will be exempt from paying the fee.
- Once the renewal process is completed, you will receive a confirmation message at your email address. Also, your renewed driving license will be mailed to you within due time.
Other Ways to Renew
NDLS also offers the option to renew your driving license at a physical center, provided you can visit in person for the verification process. However, when applying in person, you need to bring your current or most recent driving license (a valid photo ID will be required for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses) and proof of your ‘Personal Public Services Number (PPSN)’ along with the other essential supporting documents as stated previously.
To carry out the offline renewal process, follow the recommended steps outlined below.
- First, you need to head over to the official website.
- Proceed to click on ‘Book An Appointment > Continue’, and you will be asked to either sign in using your ‘Driver Number’ or ‘PPSN’ credentials.
- Whichever option you select, you will be required to first enter your PPSN, or driver number, along with your name, date of birth, phone number, and email address. In addition to that, you will be able to select your preferred communication method.
- After that, you will be required to choose the center that you will be most comfortable visiting. Look for a location near you, and you will be good to go.
- Once done, select your preferred date of appointment, and then finally confirm the same.
- After confirmation, proceed to visit your selected center on the day of your appointment, along with the supporting documents and the requisite fees.
How to Contact For Help
For any additional queries or assistance, you can get in touch with NDLS customer support via phone at 0818 700 800 or +353 21 462 4810. Phone lines are open from Monday to Friday between 9 AM and 5 PM, and between 9 AM and 1 PM on Saturdays.
Alternatively, you can get in touch with them via the online contact form or through physical mail at the following postal address: PO Box 858, Southside Delivery Office, Cork, Ireland.
Lastly, if you want to track the status of your submitted application (either online or offline), you can do so by visiting here.
Some Useful Information
The Republic of Ireland, in collaboration with the NDLS, offers six primary categories of driving licenses, along with multiple sub-categories in between. The primary types include: AM, A (A, A1, A2), B (B, BE), W, C (C, CE, C1, C1E), and D (D, DE, D1E).
The category AM includes mopeds and light quadricycles, whereas the category A and its sub-categories include all motorcycles. On the other hand, B and its sub-categories cover four-wheelers not exceeding 3500 kg, while category C and its sub-categories include vehicles exceeding 3500 kg.
Finally, the W category is for work vehicles and land tractors (with or without trailers), while category D and its sub-categories include carriage vehicles.
