Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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189. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide clarity for those holding driver licences from Northern Ireland and the UK; the way in which Brexit will affect such persons after 31 December 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43358/20]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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After the 31 December 2020, a driving licence issued by the United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland) held by an Irish resident will no longer be recognised as a valid licence to drive in Ireland. Since early 2019, holders of UK licences resident in Ireland have been encouraged to exchange their UK licences for an Irish one.

Legislation exists to allow for the recognition of foreign driving licences for exchange purposes in the Road Traffic Acts. Following the transition period, the potential then exists for arrangements to be made under those Acts and Ireland will be pursuing this option. This may take a little time to complete as it involves a formal agreement and legislation here in Ireland, as well as corresponding steps by the UK.