Learner drivers in Dublin are facing increasing difficulty in securing a full licence, as new research identifies the capital as the most challenging place in the country to pass a driving test.
The study, conducted by 123.ie, analysed data from the Road Safety Authority and the Central Statistics Office, examining factors such as pass rates, waiting times, number of test centres, penalty points and fatal collisions in 2025.
It comes amid a growing backlog of learner drivers nationwide, which has surged to between 83,000 and 100,000 applicants. Some learners are now waiting up to 20 weeks to sit their driving test.
Dublin ranked as the most difficult county overall, scoring 112.9 out of 600. The capital recorded a pass rate of just 47 per cent, alongside the longest average waiting time in the country at 35 weeks. Despite having seven test centres and delivering more than 71,000 tests, demand continues to outstrip supply. The city also recorded the highest number of drivers with penalty points, at 114,388.
“High demand means learners in Dublin are facing long delays and limited availability when booking a test,” the report found.
County Monaghan ranked second, despite a relatively strong pass rate of 63 per cent and a short waiting time of four weeks. However, the county has just one test centre, which can restrict access for learners.
“With only one test centre, availability is lower and access can be limited, particularly in more rural areas,” the study noted.
County Cork placed third, with learners facing an average waiting time of 14 weeks and a pass rate of 55 per cent. More than 60,000 drivers in the county had penalty points recorded, reflecting busier road conditions.
County Carlow ranked fourth, recording one of the lowest pass rates at 42 per cent. However, shorter waiting times of around seven weeks may help offset some of the challenges.
County Galway completed the top five most difficult counties, with an average waiting time of 19 weeks and a pass rate of 59 per cent.
Overall, the findings highlight growing pressure on Ireland’s driving test system, with regional disparities affecting how quickly and easily learner drivers can progress.
“Where you live can have a significant impact on how quickly you can obtain a full licence,” the report concluded.
