Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats)
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297. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the driver theory test will be available online; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18182/21]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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The RSA is working to deliver an online driver theory test service. It was trialled in December on a pilot basis for those taking a theory test for trucks and buses. The pilot is now being evaluated and the RSA is committed to extending the service for all theory test types during 2021. There will be a limit on the number of customers that can avail of the service during the initial rollout phase, but the objective is that it should be an option for all theory test customers during later phases of the rollout.

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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298. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if an essential worker (details supplied) in County Kerry will be provided with a date for their driver test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18223/21]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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I wish to make the Deputy aware that the operation of the tests is handled by the RSA. My Department does not have access to individual applications nor have I any power to intervene in individual cases.

Under level 5 restrictions, driving tests are being conducted for essential workers only. I understand that anyone looking for an urgent driving test appointment who is an essential worker can apply to book a driving test at www.myroadsafety.ie. If there is no available slot and they have made an application, they can ask to be prioritised by accessing providing the relevant details. I have been informed by the RSA that, as tests are only available to essential workers, there is now surplus capacity. For that reason, the RSA is able to offer test slots to essential workers, almost on demand.