Theory Test Cost Ireland 2026: Every Learner Driver Fee

Reviewed by an ADI-approved driving instructor · Dún Laoghaire & Wicklow

Overview

Getting your full driving licence involves several stages, each with its own cost. Here is a complete breakdown so you can budget accordingly.

Theory Test

Car, tractor and work vehicles (BW): €45
Motorcycle and moped (AM): €45
Truck (C): €72
Bus (D): €72
Truck and bus combined (CD): €84

If you need both truck and bus, the combined CD paper is one sitting at €84 rather than two at €144. Car and motorcycle are separate papers, so needing both means paying for both.

Book at theorytest.ie. If you fail, you pay the full fee again to rebook. Fees verified 2026-08-29.

Learner Permit

First learner permit: €45
Renewal of learner permit: €45
Adding a category: €35
Replacement (lost/stolen): €35

Applied for at an NDLS centre. The learner permit is valid for 2 years.

Eyesight Report

From an optician: Typically €20-€40

Required for your first learner permit application. The report (Form D502) is valid for 1 month from the date of the test.

Essential Driver Training (EDT)

Per lesson: €30-€50 (varies by instructor)
12 lessons total: Approximately €360-€600

Prices vary by location and instructor. Package deals are often available.

Tip: Shop around for EDT instructors, but don't just go for the cheapest option. A good instructor will teach you skills that help you pass your test first time, saving you the cost of a retest.

Comparing prices in your area?

Tell us where you're learning and we'll point you the right way. Dublin is split into its four council areas.

Driving Test

Car driving test: €85
Motorcycle driving test: €85
Truck / Bus driving test: €120

If you fail, you pay the full fee again to rebook. Driving test fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. No rule stops you reapplying the same day. What actually delays you is the queue: the RSA typically invites re-test applicants after around 10 weeks, and longer at busy centres.

Fee trap: once your test date is more than 10 days away you can reschedule twice free of charge. A third reschedule, or any change inside 10 days, forfeits the fee and you pay again. Arriving late counts as a no-show and the fee is lost.

Full Driving Licence

First full licence: €65
Renewal (10 years): €65

Total Estimated Cost

Minimum total cost to get your full car licence:

Theory test: €45
Learner permit: €45
Eyesight report: ~€30
12 EDT lessons: ~€480
Driving test: €85
Full licence: €65
Total: approximately €750

This assumes passing everything first time. Additional costs may include extra driving lessons beyond the 12 EDT lessons, and retests if needed.

Learner Permit Fees & Costs