320 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon, who let a provisional licence lapse and applied for another provisional licence, will have to complete the theory test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5469/02]

Under the Road Traffic Act, 1961, and the Road Traffic (Licensing of Drivers) Regulations, 1999 to 2001, it is a matter for the appropriate licensing authority, in this case Roscommon County Council, to determine the eligibility of a person for a provisional driving licence, including whether a theory test certificate must accompany the licence application, and to issue licences. Where the validity of a provisional licence has lapsed, the licence may be renewed within a five year period without the applicant having to present a theory test certificate.