Frequently Asked Questions

EDT stands for Essential Driver Training — a mandatory programme introduced by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) of Ireland for all learner drivers. It consists of 12 structured lessons that must be completed with an RSA Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) before you can sit your driving test.

The 12 lessons cover a range of topics in a set order, including:

• Car controls and safety checks
• Driving in traffic and junctions
• Roundabouts and overtaking
• Night driving and motorway driving
• Anticipation and defensive driving

Each lesson is recorded in your official EDT logbook, which must be presented at your driving test. You cannot sit your test without completing all 12 EDT lessons.

At a minimum, you must complete the 12 mandatory EDT lessons before you are eligible to sit your driving test. However, most learners benefit from additional practice lessons beyond the EDT programme to build confidence and consistency.

The total number of lessons you need depends on factors such as your natural aptitude, how frequently you practice between lessons, and whether you have any prior driving experience. On average, learners take between 20 and 40 hours of total instruction before feeling fully test-ready.

We'll give you an honest assessment of your progress throughout your lessons and let you know when we feel you're ready to book your test.

You can apply for your first learner permit in Ireland from the age of 17 years old. Once you have your learner permit, you can begin your EDT lessons with an approved instructor.

To apply for a learner permit, you will need to:

• Pass the Driver Theory Test
• Have a valid form of ID (passport or driving licence)
• Complete the application form at your local NDLS office or online at ndls.ie
• Pay the applicable fee

There is no upper age limit for learning to drive in Ireland. We welcome learners of all ages!

Before your first lesson, please make sure you have the following:

• Your learner permit — you must have a valid learner permit to drive on public roads.
• Your EDT logbook — this is issued by the RSA and must be signed by your instructor after each lesson.
• Comfortable footwear — flat, closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended. Avoid high heels, flip-flops, or heavy boots.
• Glasses or contact lenses — if you need them to drive, make sure to wear them.

There's no need to be nervous — your first lesson will be relaxed and introductory. We'll start in a quiet area and go at your pace.

Once you have completed your 12 EDT lessons and feel ready, you can book your driving test through the RSA's online booking system at rsa.ie or by calling the RSA directly.

To book your test you will need:

• Your learner permit number
• Your completed EDT logbook (all 12 lessons signed)
• A valid payment method (credit/debit card)

Test slots can fill up quickly, especially in Dublin, so we recommend booking as soon as you feel ready. We also offer a Car Hire + Pre-Test Lesson package (€250) which includes a focused pre-test lesson and use of our dual-control car on the day of your test.

Manual (standard gearbox): If you pass your test in a manual car, you are licensed to drive both manual and automatic vehicles. This gives you the most flexibility. The majority of learners in Ireland learn in a manual car.

Automatic: If you pass your test in an automatic car, your licence will be restricted to automatic vehicles only. However, automatics are becoming increasingly common, especially with the rise of electric vehicles. Learning in an automatic can also be easier for some learners, particularly those who find the clutch and gear changes stressful.

We're happy to discuss which option is right for you — just ask us when you get in touch.

Don't worry — failing a driving test is very common and is not the end of the road. Many excellent drivers fail their first test. The important thing is to learn from the experience.

After a failed test, you will receive a Driver Tester Report outlining the specific faults that led to the failure. This is extremely useful — it tells you exactly what to work on before your next attempt.

You can rebook your test after a minimum waiting period. We recommend taking a few refresher lessons focusing on the areas highlighted in your report before your next attempt. We offer additional lessons specifically designed to address test failures.

Yes. You must pass the Driver Theory Test before you can apply for your first learner permit, and you need a learner permit before you can take driving lessons on public roads.

The theory test is a computer-based multiple-choice exam covering the Rules of the Road, road signs, and safe driving practices. It can be booked online at theorytest.ie.

Once you pass the theory test, your result is valid for 2 years, giving you plenty of time to apply for your learner permit and complete your EDT lessons.

A learner permit in Ireland is valid for 2 years from the date of issue. You can renew it if needed. However, you must hold your learner permit for a minimum of 6 months before you are eligible to sit your driving test.

This means it's important to start your EDT lessons as soon as possible after getting your permit, so you're ready to book your test well within the 2-year validity period.

Absolutely — in fact, helping nervous learners is one of our specialities. Dan and Bruno are both experienced in working with anxious drivers and understand that nerves are completely normal.

We create a calm, pressure-free environment in the car. We never rush you, never make you feel embarrassed, and always explain things clearly before asking you to try them. Many of our most successful students started out as very nervous learners.

If you're worried about getting started, we recommend giving us a call first — a quick chat can often put your mind at ease before your first lesson.