Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
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1591. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will clarify the rules governing the renewal of driving licences, and the regulations which govern the ability of foreign nationals to continue driving here without the need to undergo a theory or driving test (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30640/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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​Irish driver licensing law operates within a framework of EU legislation, which sets driver licensing standards for Member States.  As such, we have arrangements for reciprocal exchange of driving licences with all other Member States.

In the case of non-EU states, we can establish bilateral agreements on mutual recognition of driving licences.  Reaching these agreements is not a simple process, and involves detailed consideration of the two licensing regimes by the licensing authorities in each jurisdiction, in order for both sides to be sure that the two systems are compatible. Where we do not have an EU or bilateral basis for recognition of foreign driving qualifications, people taking up residence in Ireland are by definition treated as learners, and required to undergo the same lessons and tests as other learners.  They are, however, exempt from the normal requirement to spend six months as a learner before taking the test.  

In the case of the US, driver licensing operates at State rather than Federal level.  There is therefore a wide variety of licensing systems with widely varying standards, and broad based mutual recognition is not possible.  Under international law, a holder of a licence which is not recognised for exchange may drive in Ireland on their national licence for up to a year, as a visitor. However, if the holder of the licence proposes to become resident in Ireland for a period longer than 12 months then they are required to apply for an Irish licence. An Irish driving licence may be renewed up to 10 years after it has lapsed without the requirement to undergo a driving test.