Theory tests on hold during Level 5, but driving tests continue 'for essential workers'

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has announced that Driver Theory Tests will not go ahead during the Level 5 lockdown as they are not considered an essential service.

In an update this week, the RSA said that the Driver Testing Service, the National Driver Licence Service, the National Car Testing Service, and the Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Testing Service were deemed essential.

However, it said people should only attend a scheduled driving test appointment if they are an essential worker providing an essential service or working in essential retail.

The RSA said it would not be cancelling any scheduled driving tests, but it is asking people who are not 'essential workers' to cancel their test online.

"Anyone travelling to a driving test centre to sit a driving test, and is an essential worker, is exempt from Level 5 travel restrictions. It may be useful to bring proof of your appointment if stopped by a member of An Garda Síochána on your way to sit your test," said the authority.

Similarly, it said any essential workers with an appointment at a National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) centre over the next six weeks could attend that appointment. Those aged 70 and over will be contacted directly by the NDLS and invited to renew their licence or permit by post.

All driver theory tests were suspended from yesterday (Wednesday) for the duration of Level 5. Candidates who had a test scheduled up to November 30, will be contacted about a rescheduled test.

The NCT service is continuing. Anyone with an existing appointment to attend an NCT centre should attend as normal and is exempt from Level 5 travel restrictions. Vehicle owners requiring retests should attend at the NCT test centre as normal.

"Please note that as a result of the current health crisis cash will not be accepted at the NCT when making payment," the RSA stated.