Asylum seekers have finally been cleared to apply for driving licences and learner permits, the Department of Transport has said.
The move follows a recent High Court ruling that international protection applicants meet the normal residence requirement of the Road Traffic (Licensing of Drivers) Regulations 2006 and are eligible to apply for licences.
“This ruling gives the legal certainty to allow access for asylum seekers to be introduced now, ahead of [pending] legislation,” the Department said on Friday.
Commitments to open up the system to asylum seekers were made in the 2020 Programme for Government, an amendment that would require legal remedy.
Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan plans to introduce a Committee Stage amendment to the Road Traffic and Roads Bill.
“The courts have now made a ruling that international protection applicants meet the residency requirements to apply for a licence,” he said.
“Asylum seekers face many challenges as they make their way in life. Being able to drive will give people more independence in their daily lives and the ability to commute to work and education by car when necessary.”
The temporary residence certificate issued to international protection applicants will be specified in secondary legislation as proof of residency.
