Pop-up centres to clear test backlog

It’s understood up to 20 new ‘pop-up’ testing centres could be set up to help tackle the driver test backlog.

Appointments for the driving test are currently being offered to essential workers only; while driving lessons can only be provided to essential workers who have a date for their test.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) currently has 140 testers working in 50 test centres across the country, with 40 new contract testers to take up roles in June to help address the growing waiting list.

In response to a parliamentary question, Minister for Transport Eamonn Ryan said the RSA is planning to expand its Driving Test Centre Network for a period of two years.

“The plan is to try and provide this capacity as close to the existing test centres and could involve 20 extra sites.”

Mr Ryan said the plans were in the development phases and could be subject to change.

Over 100,000 learner drivers are now on the waiting list for a driving test, as the backlog continues to grow as a result of Covid-19 restrictions.

As of March 30, just 5,671 of the 100,007 persons waiting for a driving test in Ireland have secured a date for their test.

Current waiting times at individual test centres are not available on the RSA website.

Meanwhile, the government is being urged to reopen theory test centres immediately to clear a backlog of over 100,000 candidates.

Fianna Fáil Senator Aidan Davitt made the call in light of the long-term economic affects to the country due to the delay in truck licences, construction licences among others being approved.

Under current Level Five restrictions the Driver Theory Test Service (DTTS) was not deemed an essential service by the Government and is therefore suspended. Currently the DTTS has over 105,000 candidates waiting to undertake their theory test.

“Delays after delays will hinder economic recovery, the closure of theory tests centres has impacted massively on young drivers and their quality of life, hindering them for starting a job due to lack of transport options. This is especially the case in rural areas with no public transport options.

“Theory test centres should open seven days a week for 12 hour shifts to help clear the backlog,” said Senator Davitt.