Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 October 2025
120. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Transport his views around the challenges being experienced by unaccompanied learner drivers (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53830/25]
View answerAs Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that a learner permit is not a licence, but permission to drive on our roads while learning. The purpose of the driving test is to set out the minimum level of knowledge, skill and competency that a learner must demonstrate in order to become a fully licensed driver. Until a learner can meet this standard and pass this test, they are not safe to take to our roads without appropriate supervision.
The current pass rate for driving tests nationally stands at 52%, so having fulfilled the driving lesson requirements does not mean that an individual meets the standard required to pass the test.
An unaccompanied learner driver who is stopped by an Garda Síochána is liable to up to four penalty points, a fixed charge, seizure of the vehicle and possible prosecution. It should be noted that studies have repeatedly shown that unaccompanied learner drivers are significantly more likely to be involved in fatal collisions. Thus, for reasons of road safety, there can be no exceptions to the current laws in force around learner drivers.
