Irish motorists who have had a driving licence for 10 years are being warned to renew their licence, or else they could get a massive fine.
After a driver passes their test, they are issued a licence which is valid for 10 years. However, once the ten years are up and if the licence is not renewed in time it is considered an offence according to the Road Safety Authority.
According to Section 6 of the Road Traffic Act 2014 amended s. 38 of the 1961 Act allows gardai to arrest without warrant any person, in their opinion, who is driving without a valid licence. The penalty for those driving without a valid licence including one that has expired, is a maximum fine of €1,000.
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A spokesman for the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS), said there are a number of ways to renew your licence in time to avoid a fine. Here's everything you need to know:
Apply online via the NDLS portal
Drivers can apply to renew their licence online via the NDLS portal within three months of its expiry date.
To apply to renew your licence, you will need:
- A Public Services Card and verified MyGovID.
- Proof of your address dated within the last six months if your current address differs from the one you provided when you applied for your PSC.
- Proof that you are normally resident in Ireland if your place of birth and nationality are outside the EU/EEA
- Fully completed medical report form dated within one month, if required in your case."
Book in-person appointment at NDLS centre
For those who may not be comfortable apply online, they can book an appointment to attend an NDLS centre in person. To apply in person you will need on the day:
- Your current or most recent driving licence. If your licence has been lost, stolen or damaged you must also bring valid photo ID with you
- Proof of your personal public services number (PPSN).
- Fully completed medical report form dated within one month, if required in your case.
- Proof of your address dated within the last six months is required if your current address is not recorded on your lost, stolen or damaged permit and it differs from the one provided to the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) if and when you applied for a PSC.
- Proof that you are normally resident in Ireland if your place of birth and nationality are outside the EU/EEA
According to the NDLS, it costs €55 to renew a driving licence online. Those aged over 70 are exempt from paying the fee.
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