Learning to drive can provide you with a newfound sense of freedom. However, passing your driving test can also prove challenging. There are many obstacles along the way such as completing mandatory driving lessons and getting car insurance.
What insurance do you need as a learner driver?
Learner drivers can get the same three types of coverage as anyone else. However, the price can be astronomical due to the perceived risk of insuring such an inexperienced driver.
Consider getting a black box/telematics device in order to reduce your quote. This process can be learned about in our article, ‘What is black box/telematics car insurance?’
Does learner driver insurance get cheaper as you get older?
If you are between 17 and 24 years old then you are considered a young driver. As such, you will be charged a higher premium than those above this age bracket.
You’ll find that it’s easier to find cheaper car insurance as a learner once you hit 25 because insurers regard you as less risky.
Can you still build up a no-claims bonus if you’re insured as a learner on your own car?
Yes, once the policy on the car is in your own name then you will build up your no-claims bonus and your driving experience. It doesn't matter if you’re a learner or a fully licensed driver.
Is it possible to rent a car as a learner driver in Ireland?
No, learner drivers are not able to drive rental cars even if a full licensed driver rents on their behalf. Be advised that in many countries you cannot rent a car unless you’re over a certain age and have held a licence for a minimum period even if you do have a full licence.
Is it possible to drive on your own as a learner?
As a learner driver, it’s against the law to go out driving on your own.
Under the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system in Ireland, a learner driver must be accompanied at all times by someone who has held a full, valid driving licence in the same category for a minimum of two years. This person may be known as their driving sponsor.
What happens if a learner drives alone?
If you are stopped by Gardaí and convicted of driving unaccompanied or if you allow your vehicle to be driven by an unaccompanied learner driver, the following penalties apply:
- If you own the vehicle you’re driving then you could have the vehicle impounded by the Gardaí.
- If you are an unaccompanied learner driver but not the vehicle owner then the owner faces their vehicle being impounded and being fined up to €1,000.
This is in addition to the penalty points and fines which can be applied to unaccompanied learner drivers:
- Up to four penalty points
- A fine up to €120
According to the Road Safety Authority of Ireland (RSA), 74% of fatal crashes involving learner drivers in a four-year period involved unaccompanied learner drivers.
Can a learner drive on a motorway?
You are not permitted to drive on motorways as a learner driver. Aside from this, you can drive on all other public roads once you are accompanied by a suitable fully licensed driver.
Will you get a refund on your insurance when you pass your test?
Many insurers will offer a pro-rata refund if a person passes their driving test during the term of their policy.
We’d recommend researching this before taking out a policy. Before you sign up to a policy, you should always ask what the insurer's refund process is in the case of a learner driver.
Are you able to drive unsupervised as soon as you pass your test?
While you’ll be insured once you pass your test, technically you cannot drive unsupervised until you have received your full licence.
You can apply for this online if you have a Public Services Card (PSC), or in person at a National Driving Licence Service (NDLS) centre.
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