RSA Welcomes New Rules to End Decades-Long Learner Permits
New rules will end decades-long learner permits from November 2026, with over 64,000 drivers affected including 14 on their 30th permit or more.
The Road Safety Authority has backed new regulations targeting Ireland's long-term learner drivers, with changes taking effect from November 2026 aimed at encouraging progression to full licences after years spent behind an L-plate.
The regulations, signed by the Minister for Transport, will require learner drivers to have taken a driving test within the previous two years to renew a third or fourth permit. A fourth permit will be valid for just one year, and after seven years or four permits, learners must restart the entire process, including theory tests and lessons.
The measures apply to cars, tractors, work vehicles, motorcycles and mopeds.
Currently, over 64,000 learner drivers across Ireland have held three or more permits, meaning they have been learning to drive for six years or longer. Among these, more than 22,000 people are on their 10th to 20th permit, over 1,800 are on their 20th to 30th, and 14 individuals hold their 30th permit or more.
Two-thirds of these long-term learners live outside Dublin, with notable concentrations in rural counties including Cork. The average age is 37, with 68 per cent in their 20s and 30s, though nearly one in five are aged 50 or older.
Brendan Walsh, Chief Operating Officer with the RSA, said:
"The learner permit is a stepping stone to safe, independent driving, not a long-term substitute for a full licence. The proposed changes aim to help learners progress with the right training and support, so they build confidence and the up-to-date skills needed on today's roads. This is about improving safety and fairness for everyone, not penalising people."
The RSA emphasised there will be no immediate impact on current permit holders, with the changes not taking effect for 12 months, allowing time for preparation.
Mr Walsh added that the RSA will contact learners directly and work with driving instructors to ensure everyone understands the new rules. He noted that learners have adequate time to take a driving test before the regulations come into force.
"We all want safer roads, and the best way to achieve that is through good training, fair testing, and clear accountability,"he said. "Helping people progress to a full licence benefits everyone: the drivers themselves, their families, and the wider community."
More information and FAQs are available at www.rsa.ie and www.ndls.ie.
