Timeline on closing the learner permit loophole is long overdue – Currie

The signing of regulations to close a long-standing loophole – which allowed learner drivers to repeatedly renew their permits without ever taking a driving test – has been described as a step in the right direction, by a Fine Gael TD.

Deputy Emer Currie said: “A culture of treating learner permits as full driving licences has persisted. This is reflected in the continued high number of vehicle seizures, averaging around 18 per day, and the fact that unaccompanied learners feature disproportionately in fatal and serious-injury collisions.

“I am cautiously welcoming the timeline which will close the loophole. Progress must be monitored by the Minister until the loophole is finally closed.” 

In recent years, Ireland has introduced stronger penalties for unaccompanied learner drivers, including vehicle detention, penalty points, fines, and new offences for vehicles owners who allow unaccompanied or unlicensed drivers to use their cars.

Under the new measures, approximately 60,000 learner drivers who have held permits for four years will now be required to take their driving test before obtaining their third learner permit.

“For too long, some learner drivers have been able to hold learner permits for years, even decades, simply by reapplying but not taking the test. This practice has undermined the driving-test system and contributed to record numbers of no-shows,” she said.

Deputy Currie highlighted the work of the PARC Road Safety Group, which tirelessly campaigned for this reform, alongside other vital road-safety improvements. She also commended Junior Transport Minister Seán Canney who has progressed this long-overdue commitment.

“While today marks a long-awaited step forward for road safety, it comes amid tragic news. 148 people have already lost their lives on Irish roads this year – which is five more than the same time last year. This underlines the urgent need to continue strengthening our road-safety laws, rules, and enforcement,” concluded Deputy Currie