Driver Licences

Thursday, 9 July 2026

Questions (246)

Claire Kerrane

Question:

246. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware of the hardship being caused to individuals experiencing lengthy delays in exchanging recognised foreign driving licences for Irish licences through the NDLS, particularly where these delays affect a person's ability to travel to work and maintain employment; whether additional resources will be provided to expedite the verification process with overseas licensing authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52556/26]

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Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

The exchange of driving licences is managed through the National Driver Licence Service, the provision of which is delegated under national legislation to the Road Safety Authority (RSA). Neither I nor my officials have any role in dealing with exchange applications. I have therefore referred your query to the RSA for direct reply. Please contact my office if a reply is not provided within 10 working days.

There are various factors which affect the time it takes to process licence exchange applications. For example, the applicant may need to submit outstanding information, such as a medical or eyesight report, or the physical driving licence in the case of an online application. The most common reason is in verification of the driving licence by the other licensing authority. At times a response is received very quickly but sometimes there can be delays.