L-drivers to be urged to move to full licences

THOUSANDS of motorists on long-term learner permits are to be encouraged to move to full licences, according to the Road Safety Authority (RSA).

RSA chief executive, Noel Brett told the Dáil Public Accounts Committee yesterday there are 22,861 motorists who have had five or more learner permits.

Provisional licences have now been fully phased out and replaced by learner permits which last two years. Learner drivers cannot apply for a renewal of the learner permit with providing proof that they have applied to take the driving test.