Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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119. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the online application system for exchanging driver licences will be in place; if a public services card will be required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37594/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The Road Safety Authority (RSA), through the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS), has expanded the current online facility to accommodate all driving licence and learner permit applications to enable accessibility online. The system is now in place and can be used for licence exchange applications. A verified MyGovID account, which requires a Public Services Card, is needed to access the online system.

To apply for, or renew, a driving licence you are required to present photographic ID, evidence of PPSN, evidence of address and evidence of residency entitlement. An applicant must present in person at a NDLS office where the required documentation can be examined and a face-to-face validation can be made. The same information is required when accessing the online system, and the Public Services Card satisfies this requirement as the information has already been provided and verified by another Government department. Without a PSC, it is not possible to access the online system as the necessary face-to-face validation has not been made.