πŸš› How to Get a Truck or Bus Driving Licence (C, CE, D) and Driver CPC in Ireland

Are you planning to get a truck driving licence (C or CE) or a bus licence (D) in Ireland? Or perhaps you want to work professionally and need your Driver CPC?
You’re in the right place! This guide explains everything you need to know β€” from theory test to Learner Permit, including C Licence Ireland requirements.

🚚 Who Can Apply for C, CE, or D Driving Licence in Ireland?

To apply for any of these driving licence categories in Ireland, you must already hold a full Category B licence (car licence β€” including those issued in Poland and other EU countries).

➀ Category C (Rigid Truck Licence Ireland)

  • Minimum age: 18 (with Driver CPC)

  • Without CPC: 21

➀ Category CE (Articulated Truck / Trailer Licence)

  • Must already have: Full Category C licence

  • Minimum age: 18 (with CPC) or 21 (without CPC)

➀ Category D (Bus Licence Ireland)

  • Must already have: Full Category B licence

  • Minimum age: 21 (with CPC) or 24 (without CPC)

🧠 Step 1: Book and Pass the Driver Theory Test

Before applying for your C Licence in Ireland, you need to pass the official Driver Theory Test.

To do:

  • Study online or using books/CDs from theorytest.ie

  • Book your test at www.theorytest.ie

  • Cost:

    • €72 for Category C or D

    • €84 for Combined C & D Test

Test Format:

  • C, CE, or D: 100 questions – 74 correct required – 100 minutes

  • Combined Test: 140 questions – 104 correct – 140 minutes

Bring to the test:

  • Category B driving licence

  • PSC (Public Services Card) or valid passport

You’ll receive a Theory Test Certificate, valid for 2 years.

πŸ‘¨β€βš•οΈ Step 2: Complete Your Medical Examination

After passing the theory test, schedule a medical check-up with your GP.

  • Cost: approx. €60

  • Medical Report validity: 1 month

πŸ“ Step 3: Apply for a Learner Permit (NDLS)

Once you have your medical and theory test certificate, apply for your C Licence Learner Permit via the NDLS website.

Bring with you:

  • Theory Test Certificate

  • Medical Report Form

  • PSC or passport

  • Application form

πŸ’³ Fee: €35
πŸ“¬ Learner Permit delivered within 10 working days
πŸ“† Valid for 2 years

πŸ§‘β€πŸ« Step 4: Take Driving Lessons (Truck or Bus)

Now it’s time to begin driving lessons with a certified instructor. This is also when you should prepare for your Driver CPC training if you plan to drive professionally.

Choose instructors who offer:

  • Category C truck lessons in Ireland

  • Category CE (with trailer) lessons

  • Bus lessons (Category D)

  • CPC Training Modules

πŸ’‘ We recommend choosing a school with proven experience in training professional drivers and a high pass rate for the C Licence Ireland exam.

βœ… Final Steps

Once your training is complete, you’ll book your C Licence driving test and Driver CPC case study test (if required).
Your instructor can guide you through these final steps.

🏁 Summary – C Licence Ireland Process

  1. βœ… Pass the Theory Test

  2. βœ… Complete a Medical Report

  3. βœ… Apply for Learner Permit

  4. βœ… Book Driving Lessons (C, CE or D)

  5. βœ… Complete Driver CPC Modules (if required)

  6. βœ… Take and pass the Driving Test