RSA too slash driving test waiting times from 27 weeks to 10 weeks

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has launched a new action plan to reduce driving test waiting times nationwide.

The Government has tasked the RSA with reducing times from 27 weeks to 10 weeks by early September 2025.

Mayo Minister of State Alan Dillon TD has welcomed a commitment from the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to cut the average waiting time for driving tests to ten weeks, addressing long-standing delays that have impacted drivers across the country, particularly in Mayo.

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Minister Dillon, who previously highlighted the issue during his time on the Committee on Transport and Communications, expressed frustration at the lack of progress in his constituency. “I raised the issue of these extended delays for those waiting on driving tests just last year and was saddened to see that there has been no improvement in Mayo whatsoever,” he said.

He noted that the delays have hit young people especially hard, many of whom are unable to begin employment without a full driving licence. “This is especially difficult for young people who are waiting on their full licences to start new jobs,” Dillon added.

However, the Minister welcomed new assurances from the RSA’s CEO, who has pledged to reduce the waiting period by expanding testing capacity and improving service delivery.

The RSA is currently in the process of hiring 70 additional permanent testers, with the first group now being deployed. This will bring the total number of testers to 200. According to Dillon, this boost in staffing should translate into tangible reductions in waiting times over the coming months.

To address the backlog, the RSA has already implemented measures such as extended testing hours on weekday evenings, Saturdays, and bank holidays, along with maximizing the availability of appointment slots.

“These efforts must continue if we are to achieve the goal of a 10-week wait time,” said Dillon. “I will continue to work tirelessly with Minister Seán Canney and the RSA to ensure that those waiting on driving tests in Mayo get them as quickly as possible.”

The move comes as part of a broader initiative to improve access to driving tests nationwide, with the RSA under pressure to address growing demand and ensure efficient service delivery.