Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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131. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if provisional licence renewals can be processed automatically and online but full driver licences cannot; the waiting time for an appointment at each centre; the contingencies in place in cases where the full licence of a driver is out of date and applicants cannot obtain an appointment for same for six weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17991/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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Currently, people under the age of 70 and those that do not need to provide any supporting documentation, can apply for a learner permit and/or a driving licence online provided they have a Public Services Card and a verified MyGovID account. Those that have a truck or bus category on their driving licence or learner permit can not renew online, as supporting documentation is required.

As you can appreciate, Covid 19 has had a profound effect of the delivery of services. The National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) has just resumed and is operating at around 60% of its pre Covid capacity to ensure that it complies with occupational and public health requirements.

The National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) offices are unable to facilitate any walk-ins due to the social distancing requirements and in the interest of protecting the staff and customers. Therefore, all appointments must be booked in advance. This, of course, has led to an increase in the demand for appointments. The RSA is working with their providers to see how they can increase capacity while adhering to the return to work protocol. Options under consideration include extended opening hours, overtime and protective segregation barriers between booths.

Any queries in relation to driving licences or urgent cases can be addressed to the NDLS customer service at 0761087880 or by emailing info@ndls.ie

The waiting time at each centre is an operational matter for the RSA.  I have referred your question to the RSA for direct reply. I would ask te Deputy to contact my office if a response is not received within 10 days.