Your Irish driving licence does not last forever. Group 1 licences (cars and motorcycles) are generally valid for 10 years, while Group 2 licences (trucks and buses) are valid for 5 years. When your licence is close to expiry, you need to renew it through the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS).
Here is everything you need to know.
When Should You Renew?
You can apply to renew your licence within three months of its expiry date. There is no benefit in renewing earlier than this window.
If your licence has already expired, you can still renew it — but you may not drive while your licence is expired. An expired licence is not a valid driving licence.
How Much Does It Cost?
The renewal fee is €65.
Drivers aged 70 and over are exempt from the renewal fee.
The fee is paid by card or digital payment as part of the application process.
How to Renew Online
The fastest and most convenient method is online renewal through the NDLS.
Requirements for online renewal:
- A Public Services Card with a verified MyGovID account
- Your current driving licence details
- Proof of address, if your current address differs from your Public Services Card records
- A medical report form, if applicable (required for some medical conditions or ages)
- Proof of residency, if you are a non-EU/EEA/Switzerland/UK/Northern Ireland national
Steps:
1. Go to ndls.ie and log in with your MyGovID
2. Select “Renew my driving licence”
3. Confirm your personal details and current licence information
4. Upload any required supporting documents
5. Pay the €65 fee by card
6. Submit your application
Online renewal avoids queues and does not require an appointment. Your new licence is issued and posted to you.
How to Renew In Person
If you do not have a verified MyGovID, or prefer to attend in person, you can visit any of the 34 NDLS centres across Ireland.
You will need to book an appointment in advance through the NDLS website.
Documents to bring:
- Your current or most recently expired driving licence
- Your PPSN (proof may be required)
- Proof of address if your address has changed (utility bill, bank statement, or similar, dated within the last 6 months)
- A medical report form, if required
- Proof of residency, if applicable (for non-EU/EEA/Switzerland/UK/Northern Ireland nationals)
- Payment of €65 by card
NDLS centres are located in cities, towns, and county centres throughout Ireland. The NDLS website lists all locations and their opening hours.
Do You Need a Medical Report?
A medical report may be required in certain circumstances:
- If you have a medical condition that may affect your ability to drive
- If you are renewing a Group 2 licence (trucks or buses)
- If you are over a certain age (depending on the licence category)
The NDLS will advise you at the point of application whether a medical report is needed. Medical reports must be completed by a registered medical practitioner.
What Happens to Your Driving Entitlements?
When you renew your licence, your existing driving categories are carried forward. If you previously held a Category B licence, for example, that entitlement continues on your new licence.
If you have changed address since your last licence was issued, your new licence will reflect your current address.
What If Your Licence Has Already Expired?
You can still renew an expired licence, but you may not drive while it is out of date. An expired driving licence is not a valid licence.
If your licence has been expired for an extended period, contact the NDLS to confirm the process, as additional requirements may apply.
Renewing a Learner Permit
Renewing a learner permit is a different process to renewing a full driving licence. Learner permits are also valid for two years and can be renewed through the NDLS if you have not yet passed your driving test.
→ Read more: How to apply for a learner permit in Ireland
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