Theory Test Day: What to Bring and Expect
What to bring to the Irish driver theory test, when to arrive, how check-in works and when you get your result. A short checklist with official sources.
Test day is simple if you arrive prepared. Most problems happen before the first question: the wrong ID or a late arrival.
Checklist
- Original photo ID, as a hard copy
- Name on the ID matches your booking exactly
- Booking confirmation (email or letter)
- Arrive 30 minutes before your test time
- Current address of your test centre
When to arrive
theorytest.ie asks candidates to arrive 30 minutes before the test time to allow for check-in. Plan your journey with time to spare.
Check your centre’s address before you leave. The Dublin City centre, for example, moved to One Custom House Plaza on 26 May 2026.
What ID to bring
Your ID must be a hard copy. Photos on your phone and photocopies are not accepted.
| Accepted ID | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid for international travel, or expired by no more than 12 months |
| Public Services Card | With photo |
| Irish Passport Card | In good condition |
| National Identity Card | From an EU or EEA member state, or Switzerland |
| Irish learner permit or full driving licence | Category A or B, valid and in good condition |
| Irish Travel Document |
Without accepted ID you cannot sit the test, and you lose your fee.
Check-in
- Staff check that your ID is on the accepted list.
- Your ID is scanned for security. If you refuse the scan, you cannot test.
- The name must match your booking exactly.
- You are shown to your computer.
During the test
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Format | Multiple choice on a computer |
| Questions | 40 |
| Time | 45 minutes |
| Pass mark | 35 correct |
| Voiceover | In the language you chose when booking |
| Hazard perception video | Not part of the car test |
Three habits that help:
- Read or listen to the whole question before looking at the options.
- Watch for words like NOT and EXCEPT. They flip the meaning.
- Do not get stuck. Choose your best answer and move on.
Your result
A pass or fail result appears on screen at the end of the test. The score report shows how you did in each area, without listing individual questions.
If you pass: your certificate is valid for 2 years from the test date. Use it to apply for your learner permit with the NDLS.
If you fail: there is no limit on attempts. theorytest.ie advises waiting at least 3 complete business days before you resit.
A recount costs €15 and must be requested within 10 days.
Rescheduling
| When you ask | Result |
|---|---|
| 7 or more calendar days before | Free |
| 6 or fewer calendar days before | 50% of the test fee |
| On the test day | Not possible |
The day before
- Sleep well and skip the late-night cramming.
- Do one short practice session, then stop.
- Put your ID and confirmation in the same bag.
- Check the route to your centre.
Rehearse first
The best rehearsal is a full mock test with a 45-minute timer. Try the free mock test and see how the timing feels.
Not sure about your permit history? From 1 November 2026 some learners must resit. Read the rule changes.
Practise in the format of the real test
40 questions, 45 minutes, 35 correct to pass. Practise until it feels routine.
Free: 40 questions a day with an account.