Level 5 restrictions will impact every aspect of our life writes Geraldine Herbert
Driving tests
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has not suspended driving tests so you can attend your scheduled driving test appointment provided you are an essential worker involved in the provision of essential services or essential retail outlets. You can find details on what is included in the list of essential workers and retail outlets on www.gov.ie. The RSA ask that if you are not someone involved in the provision of essential services or essential retail outlets, that you please cancel your test appointment online using the webform provided. Do not call or email the RSA to cancel your test. This cancelled slot can then be given to someone who does fall under this category.
National Car Test (NCT)
The National Car Testing Service (NCTS) has been identified as an essential service. Anyone with an existing appointment to attend an NCT centre should attend as normal and is exempt from Level 5 travel restrictions. Vehicle owners requiring retests should attend at the NCT test centre as normal. In addition, all VRT centres are operating as normal and in line with the NCT operations. It may be useful to bring proof of your appointment if stopped by a member of An Garda Síochána on your way to your test
Driver Theory Test (DTT)
The Government has not classified the Driver Theory Test (DTT) as an essential service therefore we must suspend the provision of the service in light of Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions. All Driver Theory Tests will be suspended following the conclusion of the last test today Wednesday 21 October 2020 for a period of six weeks. Candidates who have a driver theory test scheduled up to 30 November 2020, will be contacted to notify them that their test will be rescheduled free of charge when the service resumes. Updates around the re-starting of tests will be published on www.theorytest.ie
Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Testing (CVRT)
The Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Testing service (CVRT) has been identified as an essential service and centres remain open. Anyone with an appointment to attend a CVRT centre should attend as normal and are exempt from Level 5 travel restrictions.
Fuel Supply
The Irish Petroleum Industry Association is assuring motorists that there will be no disruption to supply of petrol or diesel over the duration of the Level 5 period and beyond.
Car Service and Sales
At the moment dealerships and garages are open throughout the country and Service, Parts and Aftersales will continue to operate as normal
Driving Licence
You can attend an appointment at an NDLS centre provided you are an essential worker involved in the provision of essential services or essential retail outlets. Anyone who has an appointment at an NDLS centre over the next six weeks, and who is an essential worker involved in the provision of essential services and retail outlets should attend their appointment as normal. Anyone travelling to an NDLS centre to apply for or renew their driving licence or learner permit and is an essential worker is exempt from Level 5 travel restrictions. It may be useful to bring proof of your appointment if stopped by a member of An Garda Síochána on your way to sit your test.
Driving Lessons
Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) have been classified as providing an essential service. ADIs can continue to provide instruction during Level 5 to people who have an appointment for a driving test). Details are available on www.gov.ie
Motor Tax
It is recommended to renew your Motor Tax online as access to the offices is by appointment only. You can book an appointment by logging on to your local county council website.
Geraldine Herbert
22nd October 2020
