Before starting lessons

In order to start driving, you will need to obtain your learner permit. Your application or renewal should include

A completed application form ( D201) from your local Motor tax office, Library or Garda station.

Two passport-type photographs (signed on back)

The appropriate fee

Further infomation (inc what's required if yand fee details can be found on the RSA site.

ESSENTIAL DRIVER TRAINING (EDT)

From 4th April 2011, learner drivers in Ireland will be required to undertake Essential Driver Training in orer to get their full driving licence.

The purpose of this is to ensure a higher standard of driving and safety in newly qualified drivers and means that you will need to have at least 6 months driving experience before taking your practical test.

You will be issued with a log book which will be updated by your instructor. Note that only RSA approved instructors can provide the EDT course and will keep you informed of your progress as you build up your knowledge and skills throughout the course

Sponsors

A sponsor is someone who can help you practise your driving between lessons with your instructor. This should be someone that you feel confident and comfortable with and must hold a full driving licence. They should have plenty of driving experience themselves and please note that sponsors cannot accept payment.

The Log Book

You will be issued with a log book on your first lesson which you need to keep safe and bring with you on each lesson so it can be updated by your instructor. Your sponser can then check your logbook to help them guide your practise.

You must keep your book even if you have finished training as you will be asked for it on the day of your test.

The concept

EDT has been introduced to help you learn some of the vital driving skills and to improve your knowledge and understanding of road safety.

The course consists of 12, 1 hour lessons. Each lesson has a set of expected outcomes describing what you should be able to do by the end of the lesson. It is important to remember that the EDT course alone is not enough to make you a competent driver and additional lessons and practise with your sponser should be used to bring your skills to a suitable level before progressing on to the next EDT course lesson.

View / Download PDF files

You can read full details of the EDT course and see a sample of the EDT logbook by clicking the appropriate file here. Note that these require Adobe reader which can be downloaded free if you do not have this already installed on your computer.

EDT Course information

EDT Sample Logbook

Download Adobe reader