Exchange a foreign driving licence
3 tasks in suggested order
1. Exchange an EU/EEA driving licence
If applicable: If the licence is from the EU/EEA.
A valid EU/EEA driving licence can be used in Ireland while valid. If you choose to exchange it, NDLS states that the exchange must be completed within 10 years of the licence expiring.
EU/EEA licence holders can generally drive while licence remains valid; exchange timing and eligibility depend on issuing country/status.
National Driver Licence Service (NDLS).
Current foreign licence, identity/PPSN/address/residence evidence and medical/eyesight documents if the NDLS route requires them.
Recognised-state and non-recognised-state licences follow different rules. Check the issuing country before applying.
Official source: www.ndls.ie
2. Exchange a recognised-state licence
If applicable: If the licence is from a recognised exchange state.
If the licence is from a state with an Irish exchange agreement, use the recognised-state NDLS exchange route. Once you take up normal residence in Ireland, you must exchange the licence or obtain an Irish licence; NDLS uses the 185-days-per-calendar-year normal-residence test.
EU/EEA licence holders can generally drive while licence remains valid; exchange timing and eligibility depend on issuing country/status.
National Driver Licence Service (NDLS).
Current foreign licence, identity/PPSN/address/residence evidence and medical/eyesight documents if the NDLS route requires them.
Recognised-state and non-recognised-state licences follow different rules. Check the issuing country before applying.
Official source: www.ndls.ie
3. Foreign licence cannot be exchanged: next steps
If applicable: If the licence cannot be exchanged directly.
If Ireland has no exchange agreement with the issuing state, the foreign licence cannot be exchanged. Follow the Irish learner-driver and licensing steps required to become a qualified driver.
EU/EEA licence holders can generally drive while licence remains valid; exchange timing and eligibility depend on issuing country/status.
National Driver Licence Service (NDLS).
Current foreign licence, identity/PPSN/address/residence evidence and medical/eyesight documents if the NDLS route requires them.
Recognised-state and non-recognised-state licences follow different rules. Check the issuing country before applying.
Official source: www.ndls.ie
