What is a learner permit in Ireland?

An Irish learner permit is the official driving document you hold while learning. It replaced the old provisional licence in 2007 and is issued by the NDLS. It lets you drive on public roads only under strict conditions: accompanied by a qualified driver, L-plates displayed, and observing the learner restrictions. Valid for 2 years for first and second permits.

Can a learner driver drive unaccompanied in Ireland?

No. Category B learner permit holders must at all times be accompanied by a qualified driver who has held a full Category B licence for at least 2 continuous years. Driving unaccompanied is an offence that carries penalty points, a fine and — under the Clancy Amendment — gardí can seize your vehicle on the spot.

Can a learner driver drive on the motorway in Ireland?

No. Learner permit holders are banned from all motorways with no exceptions, even if an accompanying qualified driver is with you.

Who can accompany a learner driver?

A qualified driver holding a full Category B licence for at least 2 continuous years. They cannot be a learner themselves, cannot be a novice (N-plate) driver, and must be in the front passenger seat.

Can a novice (N-plate) driver accompany a learner?

No. A novice driver displays N-plates for 2 years after getting their first full licence. During those 2 years they cannot legally act as an accompanying driver for a learner. You must hold a full licence continuously for 2 years in the same category before qualifying.

What is the 6-month rule for learner permits?

First-time learner permit holders must hold their permit for at least 6 months before they can sit the practical driving test. The 6 months run from the date your first permit is issued. Book your test on day one to run the waiting list in parallel with EDT.

What is the Clancy Amendment?

The Clancy Amendment is a change to Irish road traffic law allowing gardí to seize a vehicle on the spot if a learner is caught driving unaccompanied. Named after Geraldine and Louise Clancy, killed in 2015 by an unaccompanied learner driver. It also applies to the owner of the car.

How many learner permits can I have in Ireland?

From 1 November 2026, the maximum is 4 learner permits for Category B unless medically restricted. A 3rd or 4th permit will only be issued if you have actually taken (not just booked) a driving test within the previous 2 years. A 4th permit is only valid for 1 year. After 7 cumulative years on permits, the whole process restarts.

What are the November 2026 learner permit changes?

From 1 November 2026: maximum 4 learner permits; 3rd and 4th require actual test taken in previous 2 years; 4th permit valid 1 year only; after 7 cumulative years the whole journey restarts from scratch including theory test, learner permit, EDT and practical test.

Do I have to act now if I am on my 2nd or 3rd permit?

Not immediately, but check your permit expiry date against November 2026. If it falls after 1 November 2026 and you have not sat a driving test in the last 2 years, you will not qualify for your next permit. The RSA has written to all 68,787 drivers on a 3rd or subsequent permit.

What is the drink-drive limit for learner drivers in Ireland?

20 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood for learner and novice drivers, versus 50 mg for experienced drivers. Effectively zero. Penalty for 20–80 mg is €200 fine and 3-month disqualification, with no option to take penalty points instead.

Can a learner driver tow a trailer or caravan?

No. Category B learner permit holders cannot tow any trailer or caravan. The licence category covering towing (BE) is a separate entitlement requiring a full Category B licence and a separate test.

How much does a learner permit cost in 2026?

€45 for a first learner permit (up from €35 on 1 January 2025). Free for drivers aged 70 or over. Apply at ndls.ie online with MyGovID or in person at any of the 34 NDLS centres.

What happens if I am caught driving alone on a learner permit?

2 penalty points, a €120 fine, vehicle seizure under the Clancy Amendment, insurance invalidated for the incident, and the car owner can be prosecuted separately. If you cause an accident while driving unaccompanied you are personally liable for damages.

Learner Permit Rules in Ireland 2026, Complete Guide