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From October 25, applications for driving licences and learner permits will no longer be accepted at the local authority motor tax offices. Photo: iStock

Next week, on October 29, the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) will open centres around the country to receive and deal with applications for driving licences and learner permits.

From this Friday, October 25, applications will no longer be accepted at the local authority motor tax offices. The closest ones to The Avondhu area are in Clonmel, Cork city and the Parkway Shopping Centre in Limerick and people can apply to any of the 34 centres around the country.

The centres will be open from 9am until 5pm Monday to Friday and also from 9am until 2pm on Saturdays, so for the first time, applications can be made at the weekend.

As part of a new security process, applicants will also be required to apply in person, so as to combat fraud, this applies to all customers for a first licence, learner permit or renewed or replacement licence. Applicants will be required to bring documentation to confirm their identity, as well as the application form and the licence will be posted out within eight working days.

Mr Declan Naughton, Director of Driver Licensing and Testing, Road Safety Authority said that the new security process would benefit road safety.

“The presence of illegal unlicensed drivers on our roads is a concern for the Road Safety Authority. This new, more secure application process is important as it will ensure that the licence, which is a valuable piece of personal property, is only used by the person who has applied for it. Using modern technology, an internationally accepted security system and a well-trained team around the country, the NDLS network of centres will make the application process for those seeking to apply for a driving licence or learner permit as efficient as possible," he said.

The fees for a driving licence and learner permit are unchanged. A ten year licence will cost €55, a three-year licence will cost €35 and a one-year licence will be €25. (The cost of the photographs, taken at the NDLS centre, is included in these fees). The cost of a learner permit remains €35. Changes to existing licences and permits, for example, if you wish to add a ‘New Category’, will cost €35. Licences and learner permits for the over 70s will remain free of charge.

A free app for smart phones has also been developed which includes a NDLS Centre location finder available for both iPhones from iTunes and for Android though the Google Play Store.

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