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The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) have confirmed that the phased reopening of some RSA’s services will begin on Monday 8 June, the start of phase 2 of the government’s roadmap for easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
The National Driver Licence Service (NDLS), the Driver Theory Test (DTT), and the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) will begin reopening on a gradual basis from Monday 8 June. The reopening of these services is being done in line with the National Return to Work Safely Protocol agreed by employer and worker representatives. This follows the resumption of the Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Testing Service in Phase 1 from 18 May.
Minister Ross said:
"While I am pleased to announce the gradual resumption of these services, people do need to understand that things will be different. This is to ensure we continue to protect the health and wellbeing of both staff and the public. This must remain the overriding priority. Therefore, the delivery of these services will be subject to measures designed to mitigate against the spread of COVID-19.”
Some of the conditions that will apply to services reopening include:
“As I extended the validity of various certificates and licences relating to these services on 28 March for periods up four months, the greatest demand from the public for these services has been reduced in the short term. However, I believe it is important that the RSA’s services continue the gradual process of reopening, so we can contribute to the process of reopening Ireland’s economy and society.
“I am also acutely aware that some people do need to avail of these services now. For example, there are vehicle owners who were affected by the ‘vehicle lift’ issue at the NCTS and who need to complete their test. These customers and anyone else who has been unable to complete their full vehicle inspection are to be prioritised. They are also being urged to check the NCTS website for updates. The reopening of the Driver Theory Test will allow people to sit the theory test. The opening of NDLS centres will then allow these people to apply for a learner permit, it will also enable people to apply for a replacement licence that may have been lost or stolen.
“While the Driver Testing Service is not reopening as part of this phase in the government’s roadmap, I do wish to provide an update on this service. I appreciate that learner drivers will be anxious to know when driving tests will become available again. There are challenges to overcome in order to reopen this service fully. While I do see the possibility of truck, bus and motorcycle testing resuming, in Phase 3, there are issues to overcome to recommence car driving tests. These challenges include maintaining social distancing as a car driving test means close contact in an enclosed space between the driver tester and the learner driver for periods in excess of 15 minutes. I can assure learner drivers that officials in my department and the RSA are looking at all available options to get car driving tests started again as soon as possible."
The Minister concluded:
“Finally, I would urge anyone availing of these services to follow the procedures that have been put in place. They are there to protect you and staff. I would also ask people to please be patient and bear with staff as they endeavour to deliver public services in very changed circumstances. With understanding on all sides, we can make the reopening of these services a success."
ENDS
The phased reopening of the NCTS service will begin from Monday 8 June 2020 with the reopening of 15 centres. The reopening of more test centres will be announced in the coming weeks and updates will be posted on www.ncts.ie.
A link to a further information document for the NCTS can be found here.
The phased reopening of the NDLS service will begin from the 8 June 2020 with the reopening of 20 centres initially with the rest reopening later in June. Updates will be posted on www.ndls.ie and www.rsa.ie.
A link to a further information document for the NDLS can be found here.
The reopening of the DTT will begin on Monday 8 June with the opening of all 43 centres around the country. Updates can be found on www.dtt.ie and www.rsa.ie.
A link to a further information document for the DTT can be found here.