Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 November 2025
323. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport the mechanisms in place to verify insurance compliance for Ukrainian-registered vehicles operating in Ireland; the estimated number of such vehicles without valid insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63831/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra324. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport if there are any exemptions or grace periods applied to Ukrainian-registered vehicles regarding registration, NCT testing, motor tax, or insurance due to temporary protection or refugee status; the duration of any such exemptions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63832/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 323 and 324 together.
As Minister of State with responsibility for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, I am happy to clarify to the Deputy that no exemption or grace period applies to Ukrainian drivers in respect of motor insurance. Under section 56 of the Road Traffic Act of1961, a valid policy of motor insurance is required to drive any mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place in Ireland, irrespective of the origin of that vehicle. However, specific measures have been put in place to enable Ukrainian refugees who remain in Ireland on a temporary basis to both renew their insurance policies online and get an International Insurance Green Card. This card is internationally recognised as proof of insurance compliance, and facilitates Garda roadside enforcement. While my Department is not in position to estimate how many Ukrainian-registered vehicles fail to display the Green Card, I must be clear that An Garda Síochána, representatives of which meet with my officials to discuss motor insurance enforcement challenges on a regular basis, have not identified uninsured Ukrainian vehicles to be a particularly widespread phenomenon on our roads.
In response to the Deputy's questions regarding motor tax and vehicle registration requirements, I can advise that the registration of vehicles, including any the application of any temporary exemptions, is the responsibility of the Revenue Commissioners. Ukrainian drivers who bring their vehicles temporarily into Ireland can apply for a short-term exemption from motor tax.
This temporary exemption is not unique to Ukrainians and was introduced before the war in Ukraine. It is also subject to numerous conditions. Once an imported vehicle is re-registered in Ireland, it is immediately treated the same way as any other Irish registered vehicle. The vehicle owner must pay annual motor tax, must have valid insurance if using public roads, as I have set out above, and must pass the NCT if the car is more than 4 years old.
The Deputy may wish to refer to the Road Safety Authority fact sheet for Ukrainian drivers, which can be read in full at faqs-for-driving-a-car-in-ireland-dec-2022---english.pdf.
