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Driving In GB As A Student

Students from a Community Country

Students who hold Community licences may drive cars and motorcycles in NI for as long as their licence remains valid, or until age 70. Those who do not hold a licence must have been studying here for at least 6 months prior to taking a driving test or applying for a full licence.

Students from a Non-Community Country

Students who hold a non-Community licence or an International Driving Permit may drive here for up to 12 months.

Those who hold a licence from a designated country may apply to exchange this for a Northern Irish one up to 5 years after becoming a resident here. Students who do not hold a licence, or whose licence was not issued in a designated country, will need to apply for a provisional licence and then pass a driving test.

They will be able to take a test and obtain a full licence once they have been in NI for 6 months.