Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 May 2026
366. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport the supports available to elderly persons who wish to sit the driver theory test; if he will address the difficulties faced by those who are not familiar with technology or computers in accessing or completing the test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37290/26]
View answerUnder the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for all aspects of the National Driving Test Service. Neither I nor my officials are involved in the service at an operational level. Given the RSA's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the RSA for direct response. Please contact my office if a reply is not received within ten days.
Pending this response, I am informed that the Driver Theory Test provider offers various options to accommodate candidates who may require special assistance to take their test. Additional supports include a voiceover option whereby the questions and answers are read out to the candidate over headphones. Additional time may also be allowed for a candidate to take the test. There is also a reader recorder service available whereby a staff member will read the questions and answer options to the candidate and record their answers on screen. Other services offered include dyslexia support, professional and Irish Sign Language (ISL) video clips, or ISL interpreters.
Further information about the types of support available during the theory test can be found at the following link: https://theorytest.ie/general-information/test-day-assistance-support/.
The RSA has assured my Department that it continuously reviews its services to ensure customers are supported and also welcomes the feedback of customers and their advocates.
