Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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225. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to set out the current eyesight-report requirements for applicants seeking a Category C learner permit, including whether applicants who already hold a full driving licence in other categories are required to undergo a full Category 2 eyesight test; the steps the National Driver Licence Service is taking to ensure that this information is presented clearly on its website and application materials; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64930/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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226. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will report on the number of learner-permit applications delayed or returned in 2023 and 2024 due to incomplete eyesight or medical documentation for higher-category licences, including Category C; the actions being taken to address repeated reports from general practitioners of applicants attending without the required Category 2 eyesight report; and the expected timeline for updating NDLS guidance to reduce unnecessary GP visits and administrative burden. [64931/25]

Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 225 and 226 together.

As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that the minimum standards of physical and mental fitness required to drive in Ireland are determined by EU law.

The requirement for a medical report, which includes the eyesight report, is set out in Regulation 41 of the Road Traffic (Licensing of Drivers) Regulations 2006 (SI 537/2006). If an applicant has a valid a medical report for for category C1, C, D1, D, C1E, CE, D1E or DE, which satisfies the licensing authority as set out in Regulation 41(1)(e) of SI 537/2006, the applicant may be not required to submit a fresh eyesight report with their application.

'Sláinte agus Tiomáint Medical Fitness to Drive Guidelines' assists Irish healthcare professionals to write reports and they provide guidance on reviewing the stability, progression or improvement in an individual’s medical condition or eyesight. They are compiled by the Road Safety Authority (RSA), in conjunction with the National Office for Traffic Medicine.

The Guidelines are reviewed and updated regularly to ensure compliance with emerging evidence in the medical literature and with harmonising standards set by EU Directives adopted into Irish law. The most recent update, in April 2025, may be found at www.rsa.ie/docs/default-source/road-safety/slainte-agus-tiomaint-medical-fitness-to-drive-guidelines-2025.pdf?sfvrsn=2855c887_3

The information requested by the Deputy is held by the RSA, which has statutory responsibility for the National Driving Licence Service, and I have therefore referred this matter to the Authority for direct reply.