News & Info
New insurance requirements for driving test
12th March, 2026
Road Safety Authority requires all driving test candidates to provide proof of insurance for the vehicle used in the test.
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) have issued a new rule for the practical driving test in Ireland. As of 9 March 2026, all driving test candidates must present a valid certificate of motor insurance, proving they are insured to drive the vehicle presented for the test.
If the driver is not named on the insurance certificate, they will need to provide written confirmation of insurance, in the form of an email or letter on headed paper from the insurance company. If a candidate does not present this proof of insurance, the test will not go ahead.
What if the test is being taken in a driving instructor’s car?
Most driving school instructors will have insurance that covers their students while using the car for lessons or tests. However, this will need to be confirmed with the driving instructor who is providing the car, as the examiner will request this information as part of the driving test.
Why is this new rule being introduced?
This rule was introduced after driving examiners affiliated with the Road Safety Authority (RSA), who are members of the Fórsa trade union, voiced their concerns about uninsured vehicles being used for tests.
Fórsa contended that workers were not adequately protected by the State Claims Agency whilst performing their duties, especially when conducting tests in uninsured vehicles.
Driving examiners had scheduled a one-day work stoppage over the issue, but following renewed talks with the RSA, this industrial action was cancelled.
Importance of valid motor insurance
In Ireland, motor insurance is a legal requirement for all drivers, including those who are undertaking a driving test. However uninsured drivers continue to be a problem; according to a report from the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) a total of 19,673 vehicles were seized by An Garda Síochána in 2025.
Solicitor Paul Tracey says he welcomes the new driving test rule because it standardises the process of checking for insurance with test candidates. He says it also serves to educate new drivers about the importance of making sure they are insured on a car before driving it.
“It’s not uncommon for people to unintentionally be driving without valid insurance, particularly if it is a borrowed car. But the consequences could be significant,” he explains.
“If you find yourself in an accident while in breach of the policy terms, your insurer could refuse to cover some or all damages, leaving you personally liable for costs. And driving without valid insurance could result in fines, penalty points, or even disqualification from driving.”
“Including an insurance check as part of the driving test is a reminder to all new drivers to check they are insured before driving a car.”
Read more about situations where your car insurance could be invalid.
If you have been involved in an accident involving an uninsured driver, we may be able to help. Contact us to tell us about your case today.
Disclaimer: This article has been prepared by Tracey Solicitors LLP for general guidance only and should not be regarded as a substitute for professional advice.
Paul Tracey is the Founder and Managing Partner at Tracey Solicitors LLP. Paul qualified as a solicitor in 1982, so he brings a wealth of expertise to his clients. As a Managing Partner of the firm, Paul is the driving force behind our client centric approach and is absolutely committed to making law accessible to all.