Graeme's Driving School



Graeme's Driving School - Driving Test Info

Driving Theory Test
You must pass the theory test before you on can obtain your 1st learner driver permit.

The test is conducted on a computer monitor where 40 multi-choice questions are selected at random from a bank of over 1250. 35 questions must be answered correctly to achieve a pass.

You can book the test online or by phoning:

  • 1890 606 106 (English)
  • 1890 606 806 (Irish)
  • 1890 616 216 (Text Phone)

Alternatively you can post a completed application for to: Driver Theory Test Service,
PO Box 788, Togher, Co. Cork

Forms can be obtained by telephoning the DTT booking help line, at DTT test centres, driving test centers and Motor Taxation Offices.

The Driving Test
The car driving test costs €85. They driving tests are conducted out of 54 test centres all over the country and where and your test can be arranged for the centre you nominate on your application form.

To be able to legally take your test you must:

  • have a current provisional licence
  • display valid motor tax and insurance discs and an NCT certificate (if applicable) on the vehicle you are using
  • have L-plates on the front and rear of the vehicle
  • make sure the vehicle is roadworthy and all tyres have a minimum depth of 1.6mm
  • everything should be in perfect working order, e.g. windscreen wipers, indicators, mirrors, etc.
  • the interior and exterior of your car should be clean.

To pass the test you must:

  • Drive with due regard for the safety and convenience of other road users.
  • Possess the knowledge and skill to drive competently in accordance with those rules.
  • Know the Rules of the Road

Prior to your driving test you should study the Rules of the Road, and have learned all the Road Signs.

The driving test will take approximately 30 to 40 minutes to complete. You will be given clear instructions throughout the test, but if you don't hear correctly or understand something, ask the examiner to repeat it. Don’t panic if you make a mistake or throw in the towel during the test. It may not be as serious as you think and it may not mean you have failed.

The test begins with a check of your provisional licence and it's validity, then a brief assessment on your knowledge of the rules of the road. Afterwards, you proceed to the vehicle with the examiner will ask you to test your indicators & brake lights and they will check for valid tax and insurance. Then you will be asked to lift the bonnet and show them where the following is located.

  • Brake Fluid
  • Engine Coolant
  • Engine Oil
  • Dipstick
  • Power Steering Fluid
  • Window Washer Vessel

Once in the car, you will be asked to show the following auxiliary controls in the cockpit.

  • Back Window Demister
  • Fog Lights
  • Air Conditioning
  • Window Washers
  • Front Window Demister
  • Temperature Controls
  • Directional Airflow Controller

The aspects of your driving that will be assessed include road positioning; overtaking and passing; anticipation and observation; correct use of mirrors and signals, progress; speed; compliance with traffic lights, road signs and road markings; and proper use of your vehicle controls. At some point during your test, the examiner may ask you to demonstrate the hand signals as well.

The examiner will give you six instructions throughout your test to carry out.

  • Move Off numerous times, which includes the hill start
  • Turn Left
  • Turn Right
  • Reverse around a kerb
  • Pull in along the left numerous times
  • Do a Turnabout in the road

You can apply and pay for your driving test online. You will need a credit card to do this VISA or Mastercard. You also need to have a valid e-mail address. You can also obtain a copy from your local Motor Taxation Office.