Learner drivers will have to sit test after four years to renew permit

Changes to Learner Driver Permit Renewal Rules

New regulations require learner drivers who have held a car permit for four years to pass a driving test before renewing it. This aims to close an 11-year-old loophole in current legislation.

Details of the New Rule

The rule will come into effect in November 2026.
Most learners will need to take the practical test upon applying for their third permit.
After seven years, the learner must repeat the entire licensing process, including theory and practical tests and mandatory training lessons.

Statistics and Current Situation

As of September, nearly 63,000 learners—over 19% of all learner drivers—have renewed their permits three or more times.

Minister of State Neale Richmond told the Dáil.

Official Statements

“Under this proposal, a learner, after holding a permit for four years, must take a practical test before renewing a permit.”

“For most learners, this will be for their third permit.”

After seven years, the full licensing process, including the theory test, 12 compulsory driver training lessons, and the practical test, must be completed again.

Implementation and Reactions

Minister of State for Transport Seán Canney has signed the new regulations, although their delayed start in late 2026 has disappointed road-safety advocates.

Summary

The new driving permit renewal rules aim to improve road safety by requiring learner drivers to pass a practical test after four years and re-qualify fully after seven years.

The Irish Times — 2025-11-06