Driver Theory Test
Before applying for a learner permit, candidates must complete and pass a driver theory test.
The driver theory test is designed to test your general road safety knowledge and your knowledge on motoring legislation. It applies to anyone applying for their first learner permit.
The test is designed to check knowledge of topics such as:
- Rules of the Road
- Risk perception
- Eco-driving
- Hazard awareness
- Good driving behavior
You will have a chance to take a practice session on the day before starting on the actual test. If you have special needs please contact the Driver Theory Service and explain your requirements.
Test categories
There are four categories of theory test (see table below). Each test category corresponds to a driver-licence or learner-permit category. If you take a test listed in the first column, you are covered for all the licences or learner permits in the corresponding column.
If you are applying for your first learner permit you must:
- Include a theory test certificate for the relevant category along with your learner-permit application, unless the certificate has already been submitted
- Present the certificate within two years of the date of issue (date of passing the test)
- Eco-driving
- Hazard awareness
- Good driving behavior
Booking a test
The theory test is managed on behalf of the RSA by a test partner, which operates a number of lo-call helplines to answer queries about the test and take test bookings:
1890 606 106 (English language)
1890 606 806 (Irish language)
1890 616 216 (text phone – for the hearing-impaired)
Tests can be booked on-line at www.theorytest.ie
