The format of the Irish car theory test has not changed in 2026: it is still 40 questions in 45 minutes, with 35 correct answers needed to pass. What changes is who can sit it and when you have to sit it again, both from 1 November 2026.
Everything below comes from the official Driver Theory Test FAQs and news notices, checked on 29 September 2026.
1. Minimum Age of 15 From 1 November 2026
From 1 November 2026, every candidate must be at least 15 years old on the date of the test appointment. Candidates under 15 will not be permitted to sit the test on or after that date. See what age you can do the theory test.
Two details are easy to miss. First, the test centre cannot verify your age at the time of the test, so the responsibility lies with the candidate. Second, passing early has a cost. The notice says that candidates can currently sit the motorcycle and moped test from age 14, but you must be 16 to get a learner permit for a moped or an A1 motorcycle, and a certificate is only valid for two years.
2. New Resit Rules for Learner Permit Holders
From 1 November 2026, car and motorcycle learner permit holders must take the theory test again if:
- they have not taken a driving test in the previous 2 years when applying for a third or fourth learner permit,
- they have already held four learner permits, or
- their learner permit has been expired for 2 years or more.
The RSA explains this on its multiple learner permits page.
The official FAQ sums it up by permit number:
- Third permit: you can only renew if you have taken a driving test in the past 2 years.
- Fourth permit: the same rule applies, and this permit lasts only 1 year.
- After four permits: you cannot renew and must take the theory test again.
3. Voiceover in 21 Languages
Since 1 December 2025 the car, tractor and work vehicle test can be taken with a voiceover in 21 languages. The questions stay on screen in English. See the full language list.
4. Dublin City Test Centre Has Moved
The testing service announced that the Dublin City test centre would relocate to new premises with effect from 26 May 2026, and that affected candidates were notified by email. If you are booking in Dublin, check the address on your confirmation and on the official news page.
Rules Worth Knowing Before You Book
- Arrive 30 minutes early. If you are late or do not have the required ID, you cannot sit the test and you lose your fee.
- Smart glasses are not permitted in the testing room.
- Rescheduling or cancelling is free if your request is received at least 7 calendar days before the test date.
- You must book with an Irish address.
What Has Not Changed
- Format: 40 questions, 45 minutes, 35 to pass for the car and motorcycle tests
- Fee: €45 for the car or motorcycle test
- Certificate: valid for 2 years from the date of your test
When the test and revision material were last revised, in 2024, the official booking page stated that the number of questions had not changed.
What This Means for Your Preparation
Nothing about how you study. Cover every topic in practice mode and check yourself with a timed mock test.
More detail is in the 2026 changes guide. The new Dublin City address is on the Theory Test Dublin page.
Start practising for free → Or take the free 10-question test first.