114. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Transport the engagement he has had with his Department regarding an amendment to a Statutory Instrument to allow renewal of an expired Irish driver’s licence with the classes and categories previously approved by Ireland, if that person holds a current licence from elsewhere; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49917/26]

As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that Irish driver licensing operates within a framework of EU law – the driver licensing legislation with which all Member States must comply – and the standards for testing drivers are set at EU level. This ensures that all EU/EEA driving licence holders have been tested at a uniform standard and allows licences to be recognised for use across the region.

Someone who is resident in Ireland must hold an Irish or EU/EEA driving licence to drive here. A visitor to Ireland can use a non-EU/EEA licence during their visit, provided it is current and valid, but on taking up normal residence here they must exchange their licence or apply for an Irish licence.

Irish licences are, in general, granted for ten years. Holders of Irish licences, provided they are resident in Ireland, may renew their licence for up to ten years after expiry. After this period, the licence lapses and the holder must start the learning to drive process again.

Driving licence legislation is kept under ongoing review, to ensure that the Irish driver licensing system remains aligned with developments in EU legislation, operational requirements and road safety policy. There are no plans at present to change licence renewal requirements for a particular group of drivers.