Exchanging a foreign licence for an Irish one

Who can swap a licence without a test, who has to start from scratch, and what to do if your country is not on the list.

Ireland exchanges licences only with countries it has an agreement with. Everything else means the full route: theory, permit, EDT, driving test.

Three groups

• EU/EEA licences are recognised. You do not have to exchange, though you may do so at the NDLS at any time.
• Designated states exchange without a test. The list changes and includes, among others, the UK, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and several Canadian provinces. Check the current NDLS list.
• Everywhere else: no exchange. You start from the beginning.

If your country is not on the list

There is a real concession: holders of a full licence from a non-exchange country are generally allowed a reduced EDT of six lessons instead of twelve. That is a meaningful saving. Confirm eligibility with the RSA and your instructor before paying for a course.

You still sit the theory test — which is the part you can prepare for free, and in advance.