RSA Delivers on Promise as Driving Test Waiting Times Drop to 10 Weeks

The Road Safety Authority has successfully reduced driving test waiting times to an average of 10 weeks nationwide, fulfilling commitments outlined in its action plan through increased capacity and sustained improvements across the national testing service.

The achievement comes after extraordinary efforts by RSA staff, who conducted more than 74,000 driving tests between June and August 2025, representing a 17% increase compared to the same period last year. Over 15,000 overtime tests were delivered during this period alone, reflecting the dedication shown by testers and supporting staff nationwide.

Applications have reached record levels, with 192,373 driving test applications received between January and August 2025. July and August witnessed an unexpected surge in demand, far exceeding typical seasonal patterns and highlighting the unpredictable nature of testing requirements.

Cork's Wilton test centre features among the five busiest locations nationally, alongside Tallaght, Finglas, Naas, and Dun Laoghaire/Deansgrange. These centres together accounted for more than a quarter of all applications nationwide this year, yet improvements were recorded across every county in the network.

The RSA temporarily redeployed resources from higher-category testing to focus on recruitment and training in recent months, initially creating pressure for drivers awaiting specialist tests. However, this has been addressed through concentrated efforts, with 1,332 higher-category tests conducted in August alone, up from 850 in July.

New testing centres in Sandyford and Drogheda are approaching completion, with assigned testers already deployed to nearby centres including Tallaght, Dun Laoghaire and Dundalk to maintain testing volumes. The RSA has confirmed that plans for a third new centre are advancing, with a site identified in Munster.

Brendan Walsh, Chief Operating Officer with the RSA, said:

"This achievement is the result of an extraordinary team effort. Our driver testers, administrative and training staff, and the many new recruits who joined us have worked tirelessly under intense scrutiny and pressure. Their commitment and professionalism deserve recognition.

We also want to thank drivers, instructors, and stakeholders for their patience and support as we worked through a period of unprecedented demand. While today marks an important achievement, we know that maintaining these gains will require continued vigilance, flexibility, and collaboration."

The RSA emphasised that maintaining these service levels will require continued active management, with plans to respond swiftly to unexpected demand spikes through additional capacity measures. The authority will continue monitoring demand patterns and adapting operations to ensure the national testing service remains responsive and fit for purpose.