2,078 currently awaiting driving tests in Tipperary

Offaly learner drivers wait an average of three months for test date

placeholder image — Offaly learner drivers wait an average of three months for test date

Clonmel has the largest waiting list at 812 people

Deputy Michael Lowy was today informed that there are currently 2,078 people awaiting a Driving Test across Tipperary. Of this total, 365 are in Tipperary Town, 498 are in Thurles, 812 are in Clonmel, and 383 are in Nenagh.

Deputy Lowry was also made aware that 40 additional testers have already been hired by the RSA and that the Department has agreed to sanction the hiring of a further 40 Driving Testers to address the growing backlog of driving tests.

‘Nationally at present there are 100,000 people awaiting a Driving Test and 30,000 awaiting a Theory Test. The average waiting times for testing have doubled to 20 weeks, which is having a major negative impact for Frontline workers and younger drivers who are being penalised with high insurance costs and the difficulties associated with driving unaccompanied’ he says.

It also supports a number of important Strategic National Goals, such as promoting the growth of the retrofit and energy service company market thereby creating more quality sustainable and green jobs. Reducing energy waste, energy bills and carbon emissions which helps us meet national and EU efficiency and environment goals.

Tipperary TD, Michael Lowry

‘It is expected that 40 additional driving testers on top of the 140 testers will be in place by June, with 40 more in place shortly after that date. However, with each tester currently only doing six driving tests a day in these Covid times, the reduced capacity at present is a major concern’

‘’Following several reports from constituents stating that they were not treated in the courteous, sensitive or respectful manner that is required, the RSA has agreed to put in place a system whereby customer can forward their views, in confidence, on the manner in which they were treated. The RSA stated that Customer/Tester relations is an integral part of the Driving Test process’ he concluded.