need to know
A must read for those taking the exam next month or later.
Learner drivers have been warned about new rules starting next month and could be refused their exams without refund if they ignore them. This follows a recent industrial relations dispute in which Road Safety Authority (RSA) driving examiners, members of the Forsa trade union, raised concerns about uninsured vehicles being submitted for testing. Forsa claimed that the workers were not fully compensated by the National Claims Agency when performing their duties, especially when carrying out inspections on uninsured vehicles. Driving testers had planned to suspend operations for a day today (Friday) over the issue, but thanks to a new agreement with the RSA, this measure has been halted and new rules for driving tests will soon be introduced.
About the new insurance rules for driving license exams
- RSA will change its standard testing procedures starting March 9, 2026. From that date onwards, all learners will be required to show the examiner evidence that the vehicle they use for the exam is insured, but simply having a disc in the windscreen is not sufficient. In a new letter to certified driving instructors, the RSA said they will need to provide evidence of the following on the day of the test:
- – an insurance policy specifying the learner driver as covered; and
- – If the learner driver’s name is not on the insurance policy, an email/letter (heading paper) from the insurance company stating that the person is covered, for vehicle registration, and on the day of the test, or
- – If the learner driver is using a certified driving instructor or driving school vehicle, a copy of the insurance certificate (front and rear) showing that the learner driver has appropriate insurance for the driving test. (If this information is not provided on the certificate, a paper attachment with a heading explaining this detail)
- An RSA spokesperson said: “This new measure is being introduced to reduce the risk of driver testers sharing a vehicle with an uninsured driver. RSA will update its learner driver communications and our website to reflect these new changes, which will come into force from 9 March 2026.”
- “If the driving examiner cannot prove it from the evidence, the driving test will not be conducted and the test fee will be forfeited, provided the learner driver has insurance.”
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