AA Car Insurance

How do I renew my driving license?

Published 10th February 2023Read Time 6 min

Having a valid driving license is hugely important. It is an official document that we must carry with us when driving. For most of us, it was a hard fought process to obtain. And it’s definitely something that we want to keep hold of!

But it’s not as straightforward as we would like. So we’ve come up with a handy guide for you to help in renewing your driving license.

How do I renew my Driver’s License?

You can renew your driving license online on NDLS.ie or in person. It is also an opportunity for you to update the personal details on your license. There are a number of documents that you must provide, as well as some other documents needed in specific circumstances.

It is a good idea to get all these documents in order in advance so that you are not caught out at the last minute. You can apply to renew your driving license within three months of expiry.

Should I apply for my Driver’s License online?

You can apply for your license in person or online. You should apply by whatever means suits you best. Although the fee is the same either way, there is a difference in the documentation required. Therefore it’s a good idea to scan through the documentation to see if getting your hands on any particular documents will cause you trouble. It may also depend on how tech-savvy you are. Booking an appointment and dealing with another person across a desk may suit you best.

How do I renew my driving license online?

You will need access to a computer or device, but remember that you can always seek out a tech-savvy friend or family member to help you if you don’t have access.

All you need is the following:

A Public Services Card and verified MyGovID.
Proof of your address dated within the last six months if your current address differs from the one you provided when you applied for your PSC.
Proof that you are normally resident in Ireland if your place of birth and nationality are outside the EU/EEA.
Fully completed medical report form dated within one month, if required in your case.
Application fee of €55.00. This can be paid by credit or debit card.

Once you’ve got all this together, you can head over to NDLS.ie to renew your driving license online. If you are over 70 years of age then you do not have to pay the fee.

How do I renew my driving license in person?

If you are thinking of renewing your license in person, then bear in mind that you need to book an appointment at an NDLS centre in advance. Once you have your appointment, make sure that you give yourself plenty of time to gather the documents that you will need to present on the day.

To apply in person at an NDLS centre you will need the following:

Your current or most recent driving licence. If your licence has been lost, stolen or damaged you must also bring a valid photo ID with you
Proof of your personal public services number (PPSN).
Fully completed medical report form dated within one month, if required in your case.
Proof of your address dated within the last six months is required if your current address is not recorded on your lost, stolen or damaged permit and it differs from the one provided to the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) if and when you applied for a PSC.
Proof that you are normally resident in Ireland if your place of birth and nationality are outside the EU/EEA
Application fee of €55. You can only pay by credit or debit card, Google Pay or Apple Pay or Payzone voucher. If you are aged 70 years or over you are exempt from paying the fee.

You can apply in person at any of the 34 National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) centres nationwide.

What do I do if I lose my driving license?

There is certainly no need to panic. The process is much simpler if you are replacing a lost license. You can now quickly apply for your replacement driving licence online. No need to complete paper forms, make appointments or visit an NDLS centre in person.