US driver licence issue is raised

FIANNA Fáil TD for Sligo-Leitrim Eamon Scanlon says Irish people returning home after spending years abroad are being penalised by the current driving licence system.

The Sligo Deputy says he’s been contacted by people, who have been living in the US and who have a US drivers licence, but have been denied an Irish licence. They’re being forced to apply for a drivers permit and undergo the full driving test process again including taking 12 lessons.

In response, Minister for Transport Shane Ross said he will be introducing new measures to reduce the burden of obtaining an Irish driving licence for returning emigrants, as well as others taking up residence in the country.

“I do believe that a number of lessons will help people adjust to specifically Irish rules and make it easier for them to pass the test, but making them go through a complete 12-lesson programme designed for beginners does not make sense.’

“Under the new measures, people who take up residence in Ireland and hold a full driving licence which is not exchangeable for an Irish licence will now be required to take six rather than 12 lessons before taking the test. This will significantly reduce the time and cost to the individuals.

“At the same time it will maintain standards of public safety. Drivers in this situation will still have to prove their qualifications by passing an Irish driving test.”