DÍOSPÓIREACHTAÍ PARLAIMINTE PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES DÁIL ÉIREANN DÁIL ÉIREANN TUAIRISC OIFIGIÚIL (OFFICIAL REPORT) Dé Máirt, 18 Samhain 2025 Tuesday, 18 November 2025 Vol. 1075 No. 5 Driver Licences

293. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware that there are persons who drive tractors only, that can no longer get insurance as they do not have a valid driver number; the steps a person can take to have a tractor licence without take a driving test for a car; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63556/25]

Minister of State at the Department of Transport (Deputy Seán Canney)

I wish to advise that, under section 56A of the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, a person must provide to the insurer or intermediary their Irish driving licence or learner permit driver number or, for a foreign driving licence, the driver number, licence number or unique identifier, when seeking insurance.

The steps to obtain a tractor licence (category W, work vehicles and tractors), for an applicant aged 16 or above, are as follows.

1) Sit and pass the theory test in category B & W.

2) Apply for a learner permit in category W within 2 years of passing the theory test.

3) Make an application for a driving test in category W.

Further information is laid out on the RSA’s website at www.rsa.ie/services/learner-drivers/get-qualified/work-vehicles-and-tractors.