Photo: Yan Krukau / Pexels. Illustrative photograph.
You book the Irish driving test online through MyRoadSafety, the RSA’s customer portal. First you apply and pay, then you wait for an invitation to pick a date. This guide covers who can apply, the steps, the €85 fee, the reschedule and cancellation rules that cost people their fee, and how waiting times work, as of November 2026.
Key facts
- Apply on MyRoadSafety with a verified MyGovID, or by registering your details with the RSA. A postal application form also exists.
- Test fee: €85 (check the current fee on rsa.ie before paying).
- You need your driver number: field 4(d) on your learner permit.
- Tests cannot be booked by phone or email.
- Reschedule or cancel more than 10 days before the test. Inside 10 days, or on a third reschedule, you lose the fee.
- You cannot reschedule within 2 days of the appointment.
Can I apply for the driving test yet?
To sit a category B test you must:
- hold a current learner permit for category B
- have completed all 12 EDT lessons (first car permit issued on or after 4 April 2011)
- have held your first learner permit for at least 6 months on the test day. See the six month rule
- have a suitable car. See your car for the Irish driving test
Applying early puts you on the list sooner, but only accept a date you will be ready for.
How to book the driving test in Ireland, step by step
- Log in to MyRoadSafety. Use a verified MyGovID (this needs a Public Services Card) or register your details with the RSA.
- Apply for a driving test. Choose the category and your preferred test centre, and enter your driver number from 4(d) on your learner permit.
- Add special accommodation if you need it. Select “Add special accommodation” to tell the RSA about any needs.
- Pay the fee. €85 by card.
- Wait for your invitation. When dates open at your centre, the RSA invites you to book an appointment. If your centre has no dates, you can join the waiting list or check availability at other centres.
- Book your slot from the invitation and read the appointment notice. It lists everything you must bring and the vehicle rules for the day.
Reschedule and cancellation rules
| Situation | What happens to your fee |
|---|---|
| Reschedule more than 10 days before the test (1st or 2nd time) | Kept |
| Reschedule a 3rd time | Lost. You pay for a new test |
| Reschedule or cancel within 10 days of the test | Lost |
| Within 2 days of the test | Rescheduling is not possible |
| You do not attend | Lost |
Changes are made in MyRoadSafety under “My bookings”. The RSA may refund at its discretion in some cases, for example if you are emigrating. Ask before assuming.
Ways to lose your fee on the day
The Rules of the Road says the test is cancelled and you lose the fee if:
- you are late (be at the centre at least 10 minutes early)
- the car does not show the correct discs or L plates
- the car is not roadworthy
- you do not have the correct vehicle for the test category
Since 9 March 2026 you must also show a valid certificate of motor insurance for the test car. See the Irish driving test explained.
How long are driving test waiting times in Ireland?
They vary a lot between centres and change month to month. The RSA publishes current waiting times for each test centre on rsa.ie. Before you apply:
- compare the centres you could reach
- remember you must bring a suitable car to whichever centre you choose, at least 10 minutes early
- plan EDT so you finish it before your likely invitation
Common questions
Can my instructor book the test for me?
The application is made through your own MyRoadSafety account, using your driver number. Your instructor can help you through it.
Can I change test centre after applying?
The RSA lets you view availability at other centres when yours has no dates. Check MyRoadSafety for the current option to move.
Do I need to have finished EDT before applying?
You must have completed EDT before you sit the test. Many learners apply while they are still doing lessons so they are on the list sooner.
What if I am sick on the day?
Inside 10 days you normally lose the fee. Contact the RSA through MyRoadSafety, since refunds are at its discretion.
How much is a retest?
Each new application costs the test fee again, €85 as of November 2026.
Can I book by phone?
No. Tests cannot be scheduled over the phone or by email.
Back to learning to drive in Ireland. Related: common reasons for failing, pre-test checks.
Sources
- Road Safety Authority, “How to apply” for the driving test (rsa.ie)
- Road Safety Authority, “Driving test terms and conditions” (rsa.ie)
- Road Safety Authority, Help and support, “How do I apply for a driving test and add myself to the waiting list” (rsa.ie)
- Road Safety Authority, Help and support, “I need to cancel my test” (rsa.ie)
- Road Safety Authority, “Driving test centres” (rsa.ie)
- Road Safety Authority, “Rules of the Road”, Section 3 The driving test (Revision 5, hosted on garda.ie)