‘Having CPR questions on Driving Theory Test will save lives’ – Gallagher

Last year in Ireland, 232 lives were saved by CPR in out of hospital cardiac arrests

A local senator today raised the matter of having CPR and AED questions on the driver’s theory test, saying that “drivers may be able to assist road accident victims” with more knowledge of it.

By way of Commencement Matter, which he raised this morning in the Seanad, Senator Robbie Gallagher said that CPR is a crucial tool in our arsenal in our fight to increase survival rates of cardiac arrest.

In the UK, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) are expanding the theory test questions to include more questions on CPR and AEDs from early 2026, something Gallagher in conjunction with the Irish Heart Foundation is calling for.

Throughout his correspondence with Minister of State Jerry Buttimer in the Seanad this morning, Senator Gallagher was pleased to say that the addition of CPR questions to the theory test is ‘on its way’.

“It is crucial that drivers have the knowledge of CPR and how to use and AED. Drivers are often first people on the scene of an accident. It is a no brainer to have these questions added to the theory test," said the Fianna Fáil senator.

“Through my correspondence with officials in the Department and Minister Buttimer, I am pleased to say that under the new Driving License Directive driving test candidates will be required, among other things, to have knowledge of the measures which the driver can take to assist road accident victims where necessary, including basic knowledge of first aid, in particular CPR."

The Directive that was published in November, will be transposed over the next two years and this requirement will then be part of national law.

Director of Advocacy at The Irish Heart Foundation, Chris Macey said: “The news that knowledge of First Aid and CPR specifically will be required by driving test candidates in the new Driving Licence Directive is hugely welcome as it will undoubtedly save lives.

“Quick action when someone has a cardiac arrest is of life and death importance. Motorists are often first on the scene as trauma and shock caused by road accidents can lead to cardiac arrest, so knowing what to do and having the confidence to act is vital.

“We commend the road authorities for taking this decision and urge that it now be implemented as quickly as possible.”