How do you exchange a foreign driving licence in Ireland in 2026?

EU and EEA licences are mutually recognised. You may drive on a valid EU or EEA licence and exchange it for an Irish equivalent through NDLS, including within ten years after that foreign licence expires.

RSA recognised states (countries and territories with an exchange agreement) include the UK, Northern Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, South Korea, Japan, South Africa, Taiwan, Georgia, Moldova, Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey, the Isle of Man, and listed Canadian provinces such as Ontario and British Columbia. Visitors from those places may drive for up to one year on a valid licence. Once you are normally resident (usually living here at least 185 days in a calendar year because of personal and work ties), exchange or begin the Irish licensing path. UK citizens who live in Ireland must exchange a UK licence; a holiday visit from Britain is different from taking up residence in Dublin or Cork.

If your licence is from a country outside the EU, EEA, and recognised list, you cannot swap it. As a visitor you may drive for up to twelve months with a valid national licence plus an International Driving Permit (IDP, a translation booklet that does not replace a licence) when required. After that window, take the Irish driver theory test, complete the reduced Essential Driver Training lesson set, and pass the practical test. Foreign learner permits cannot be used or exchanged.

Ukrainian licences have separate temporary-protection driving rules and are no longer exchanged for Irish licences. Check current RSA guidance if that applies to you.

Online exchange normally needs a Public Services Card (PSC, the Department of Social Protection identity card) and a verified MyGovID (Ireland's government digital identity), your current or most recent foreign licence (posted after the online form), proof of address if it differs from the PSC record, proof of normal residence if you are not an EU or EEA citizen, any required eyesight or medical report, and the €65 fee (free at 70 or over). In-person NDLS appointments need similar documents plus photo ID and proof of your PPSN (Personal Public Service Number).

Categories do not always transfer one-for-one. Motorcycle or professional bus and truck entitlements can follow extra RSA rules. Insurers expect you to declare the correct Irish licence status; driving on an expired visitor entitlement while resident risks void cover.