Getting Your Learner Permit
The first step on the road. Here is exactly what you need to do.
What the learner permit is
The Irish learner permit is the entry-level licence that lets you drive a Category B vehicle (cars and small vans) on public roads while accompanied by a fully licensed driver. You need one before you can start your EDT lessons.
Your first permit is valid for two years.
How to apply, step by step
- Pass the Driver Theory Test. Book at theorytest.ie and sit the test at any Prometric centre. Multiple choice, pass mark is displayed at the end.
- Get an eyesight report. Visit any optician. The report must be dated within six months of your application.
- Gather your documents. Proof of identity (passport or public services card), proof of address, PPS number, theory test pass certificate, eyesight report.
- Book an NDLS appointment. Go to ndls.ie and book a slot at your nearest centre. You can also apply online through MyGovID for renewals, but first permits usually require an in-person visit.
- Attend your appointment. Bring everything. The NDLS processes your application and your permit arrives by post.
- Start your EDT. Once you have the permit in hand, call us on 01 902 3100 and book your first automatic lesson.
Rules while on a learner permit
- Display L-plates on the front and rear of the car at all times.
- Be accompanied by someone with a full licence held for at least two years.
- Do not drive on motorways.
- Do not act as accompanying driver for another learner.
- Hold the permit for at least six months before you can sit the driving test.
Choosing automatic from the start
Your learner permit does not specify manual or automatic. The restriction only applies when you sit the test. If you take the test in an automatic car, your full licence is restricted to automatics. If you later want manual, you take a new test.
Many learners make the automatic decision at the EDT stage, not the permit stage. Either way, we are here when you are ready.
Things people get wrong
No. You must be accompanied at all times by someone with a full licence in the same category, held for at least two years.
12 EDT lessons is the minimum, not the target. Most learners take more than 12 lessons before they are genuinely test-ready. Your instructor will tell you when you are there.
Not automatically. An automatic pass gives you an automatic-only licence. For manual, you need to take a new test in a manual car.
What it costs
The fees you pay before your first lesson are set by third parties, not by us:
- Driver Theory Test fee, set by the theory test provider (see theorytest.ie).
- Learner permit application fee, set by the NDLS (see ndls.ie).
- Eyesight report, depends on your optician.
Once you have your permit, our automatic lesson prices start at €61.41 per lesson. See full pricing.