What you need to know about this key knowledge test for learner drivers. There are also theory tests for RSA approved driving instructors and professional drivers (CPC).
Driver theory test
The learner driver theory test was introduced in 2001. By law, before applying for a learner permit, candidates must complete and pass a test of their general road safety knowledge and motoring legislation. It applies to anyone applying for a first learner permit in any vehicle category.
The test is designed to check knowledge of topics such as:
The test is computer-based but, like the fast check-in kiosks at airports, is designed for those who have little or no experience of using computers as well as those who do.
You will have a chance to take a practice session on the day before starting on the actual test. If you have special needs please contact the Driver Theory Service and explain your requirements.
Driver Theory Service contact:
1890 606 106 (English language)
1890 606 806 (Irish language)
1890 616 216 (text phone – for the hearing-impaired)
There are separate theory tests for driving instructors and for professional bus and truck drivers:
Approved Driving Instructor (ADI)
Driver CPC (Certificate in Professional Competency)
Latest version
A comprehensive review of the Driver Theory Test Study material Book and CD-Rom took place in 2011 with a view to improving the content and its effectiveness as a learning tool. Most of the 1500 questions in the Driver Theory Test 4th Edition have been updated revised or replaced. The revisions include new questions and graphics as well as amended versions of existing questions.
All exams for car, motorcycle, bus and truck categories contain new and amended questions. The format of the test, based on multiple choice questions, has remained unchanged and candidates are required to answer correctly 35 out of 40 questions in order to obtain a pass certificate. Candidates at the end of their exam will regardless of passing or failing also be provided, based on their performance, with a list of the categories recommended for further study e.g. Road Signs, Markings and Traffic Regulations, Alert Driving and Consideration for Road Users etc. All of these correspond to the categories listed in the training Material in order to facilitate revision or help improve overall skills.
The complete list of updated questions is published in the Official Driver Theory Test Book (5th edition) and CD-Rom. These are available to purchase online at www.theorytest.ie and in book shops nationwide. The CD provides ‘Practice Tests’ which simulate the real exam experience and allow candidates to gauge their learning progress. People presenting for the driver theory test on or after the 24th October 2011 must have studied the new study material. i.e. The Official Driver Theory Test 5th Edition Book or CD-Rom.
Test categories
There are four categories of theory test (see table below). Each test cateogry corresponds to a driver-licence or learner-permit category. If you take a test listed in the first column, you are covered for all the licences or learner permits in the corresponding column.
| Theory test certificate | Driver licence or learner-permit category |
|---|---|
| B and W | Covers cars, land tractors and work vehicles B, EB and W |
| A and M | Covers motorcycles and mopeds A, A1, A2 and M |
| C | Covers vans and trucks over 3,500kg C1, C, EC and EC1 |
| D | Minibuses and buses D, D1, Ed and ED1 |
If you are applying for your first learner permit you must:
Note: you will be regarded as an applicant for a first learner permit in respect of a particular vehicle category if you have not held such a licence in the preceding five years.
Booking a test
The theory test is managed on behalf of the RSA by a test partner, which operates a number of lo-call helplines to answer queries about the test and take test bookings:
1890 606 106 (English language)
1890 606 806 (Irish language)
1890 616 216 (text phone – for the hearing-impaired)
The postal address of the testing service is:
PO Box 788
Togher
Cork
Application forms are available from the testing service and from all local motor taxation offices.
Tests are held in 41 driving test centres around the country.
The test is offered in both Irish and English and candidates with special requirements can be accommodated. A Polish, voiceover is available in all category of vehicles. A Russian and Lithuanian voiceover is available for the category B (car).
Source: AaronRiderTraining