- Fee: €45 for BW (car, tractor and work vehicles) and for AM (moped and motorcycle).
- 40 questions, 45 minutes, 35 correct answers to pass.
- Re-sit after three days, with no limit on attempts, and a fee each time.
- From 1 November 2026 candidates must be at least 15 on the day of the test.
Where to book
The only page the RSA points to is theorytest.ie. The RSA's own theory test page warns that unofficial websites which appear to accept theory test bookings are fraudulent. You can also call the Driver Theory Test Service on 0818 606 106 in English or 0818 606 806 in Irish. There are about 40 test centres, and you choose the one you want in the online booking.
You are responsible for booking the correct category, because it cannot be changed at the centre. You must also schedule using an Irish address. A candidate who booked with an address outside the Republic will not be allowed to test and loses the fee.
ID: the rule that catches people
You need one of the following, in hard copy. A photocopy or a picture on a phone is not accepted:
- a Public Services Card with photograph;
- a passport valid for international use, or up to 12 months expired;
- an Irish passport card in good condition;
- a national identity card from an EU/EEA state or Switzerland;
- an Irish category B or A learner permit or full licence, valid and in good condition;
- an Irish Travel Document;
- a current Ukrainian driving licence.
The spelling of the name on the ID must match the booking exactly. Wrong or missing ID means you cannot test and you lose the fee. Arrive 30 minutes early, because the check-in includes a security step in which you verify personal information.
Fees you can lose
| Situation | Result |
|---|---|
| You arrive late | Fee lost |
| You cancel within five days of the appointment | Fee lost |
| You bring the wrong ID, or none | You cannot test; fee lost |
| You fail | Apply for a new test after three days; a re-sitting fee applies each time |
After you pass
You get a pass or fail on screen at the end and a link to a score report by email. You cannot get a learner permit without a theory test certificate, and you need to apply for the permit within two years of the pass or you repeat the test and pay again. Next: the learner permit.
Revision material
The booking site says it is the only supplier of official RSA-approved revision material, including the Learning App for iOS and Android. We have not compared it with other study products. The questions were revised in June 2024; the test is still 40 questions with a pass mark of 35.
Why nobody can sit it for you
A person sitting the exam in your name has to pass the same ID and security checks, and in the cases gardaí investigated they used false identity documents to do it. The outcome was revoked permits and prison sentences. Read the details on fake theory test certificates.
Test day, step by step
- Arrive 30 minutes before your appointment.
- Show one approved hard-copy ID, matching the booking name exactly.
- Answer the security questions that verify your personal information.
- Take the 40-question test in 45 minutes. 35 correct answers pass.
- Your pass or fail shows on screen, and a link to a score report arrives by email.
Bus and truck candidates
Category C (truck) and D (bus) candidates must bring extra proof: a full current category B licence, from Ireland, an EU/EEA state, Switzerland or Ukraine, or a current category C or D learner permit or licence, as applicable. The same extra rule applies to the CPC case study exam.
Support on the day
The official site has pages on Test Day Assistance and Support, accessibility, and in-person reader and dyslexia support, and the RSA gives numbers for special assistance or language options. Ask for support when you book rather than at the centre, and use the official site for it as well.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the driver theory test in Ireland?
€45 for the car and tractor category (BW) and for the motorcycle and moped category (AM), according to the official booking site, checked 5 October 2026.
How do I book the theory test?
At theorytest.ie, the official RSA booking site, or by phone on 0818 606 106. The RSA warns that unofficial booking websites are fraudulent.
What ID do I need for the theory test?
One approved hard-copy ID such as a Public Services Card, a valid passport, an Irish passport card, an EU/EEA identity card or an Irish learner permit or licence. The name must match your booking exactly.
How many questions are on the theory test?
40 questions in 45 minutes. You need 35 right to pass.
How soon can I retake the theory test?
After three days. There is no limit on attempts, but you pay a fee each time.
What is the minimum age for the theory test?
From 1 November 2026 candidates must be at least 15 years old on the date of the test appointment, according to the official site.