Learner drivers in Laois wait up to 18 weeks to take driving test
The Portlaoise test centre has a longer wait period than average
Learner drivers in Laois must wait 3 and a half months to be invited for a driving test.
The average wait time is generally 10 to 12 weeks for learner drivers in Ireland to get an invitation to take their driving test.
However, the driving test centre in the Maldron Hotel in Portlaoise has an even longer wait time of 13 weeks.
When trying to get a driving test invitation on the RSA’s website as of Tuesday, June 23, the estimated time it would take to receive an invite would be September 21.
The wait time to actually take the test is then longer, with drivers having to register upon receipt of the invite and then select a test time within 3 to 5 weeks.
In total, the entire process could take up to 18 weeks in Portlaoise.
In comparison, Carlow has an estimated wait time for an invitation of around 9 weeks between its two centres.
Birr similarly has a 9 week waiting period, although Tullamore is longer with an estimated 10 to 11 week wait.
These waiting times demonstrate the high demand for driving tests in Laois and neighbouring counties.
Exacerbating this issue, there were 128 no shows for tests across the country last year.
The pressure on test centres may be increased in the coming months with new legislation coming into affect in November for learner drivers.
From November 1, you will no longer be able to get a third or fourth learner permit just by applying for a driving test. To be eligible for a further learner permit, you must have taken a driving test within the previous 2 years.
There will also no longer be a fifth learner permit. After your fourth permit you will have to start the learning to drive process again.
Also, if your learner permit has expired for 2 years or more, you won’t be able to renew it and will need to start the learning to drive process again.