How to Get a Taxi Licence in Ireland
Obtaining a taxi licence in Ireland can seem like a complex process, but by following the steps outlined below, you can simplify your journey to becoming a licensed driver for a Small Public Service Vehicle (SPSV), such as a taxi, limousine, or hackney. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to apply for and obtain your licence so you can begin your new career.
What is an SPSV Licence?
An SPSV (Small Public Service Vehicle) is any vehicle that carries up to eight passengers for hire or reward. To legally drive one of these vehicles in Ireland, you must hold an SPSV Driver Licence.
Step 1: Prepare for the SPSV Exam
The first step in getting your licence is passing the SPSV Skills Test, which assesses your industry and area knowledge.
What Does the Exam Cover?
The test includes two sections:
- Industry Knowledge (54 multiple-choice questions):
Topics include licensing regulations, vehicle requirements, customer satisfaction, safety, fares, and operating as an SPSV driver. - Area Knowledge (36 multiple-choice questions):
Based on the county where you’ll operate, this includes landmarks, roads, hospitals, Garda stations, transport hubs, and more.
To pass, you must score at least 75% in each section. If you fail one section, you have 12 months to retake only the section you failed (Industry Knowledge or Area Knowledge); otherwise, you’ll need to redo the entire test.
Thankfully, you do not need to learn every single road, hotel, hospital, etc in your county. We know what information you should be concentrating on. Taxischool is proud to say we have the highest rate of students passing the test on their first attempt.
If hundreds of students could achieve that goal, so can you. Check out our course options or get in touch and we will be happy to assist you on your journey.
Booking Your SPSV Exam
You can book the test with the National Transport Authority (NTA) by calling 0818 064 000. You’ll need:
- Your contact details
- Personal Public Service (PPS) number
- A full Class B driving licence or higher (from Ireland, the EU, EEA, or a recognized state)
- €90 for the exam fee (payable by credit/debit card or postal order)
Test locations include Dublin (Greenhills and Northpoint Business Park), Cork, Galway, and Sligo. The exam is typically scheduled 5–6 weeks after booking.
Step 2: Complete the Online Professional Development Course
Once you pass the SPSV Exam, you must complete a free, 30-minute online course on Safeguarding and Disability Awareness. There’s no pass/fail requirement, but this course must be completed before applying for your licence.
Step 3: Apply for the SPSV Driver Licence
After passing the exam and completing the online course, you can apply for your SPSV Driver Licence. Follow these steps:
- Get a PSV 15 Application Form
Obtain this form from your local Garda station. - Prepare Required Documents
You’ll need:- Three identical passport-sized photos (10 cm x 7 cm, taken within the last 6 months)
- A copy of your SPSV Skills Certificate (valid for 6 years)
- A Tax Clearance Certificate (apply for it online)
- A copy of your driving licence
- A written undertaking not to drive an SPSV for more than 11 hours on three consecutive days
- Details of any other occupations, particularly if they involve driving, and evidence that your employer has been informed of your application
- A health declaration affirming that your condition won’t affect your ability to drive
- A declaration that you have no convictions as specified under the Taxi Regulation Acts
- Any additional documents required by An Garda Síochána
- Pay the Application Fee
Call the NTA at 0818 064 000 to pay the €250 licence fee by credit or debit card. Attach the receipt to your application. - Submit the Application
Submit the completed form and documents at the Carriage Office (if in Dublin) or your local Garda station (outside Dublin).
Step 4: Garda Vetting Process
After submitting your application, you’ll undergo Garda vetting, which can take up to 12 weeks. If approved, you’ll receive a paper SPSV Driver Licence from An Garda Síochána.
Step 5: Obtain SPSV Identification Cards
After the application, the Garda Vetting process begins. It could take up to 12 weeks to be completed.
Once licensed, apply to the NTA for two essential identification cards:
- The SPSV Driver Display Card
- The SPSV Driver Smart Card
These cards will be mailed to you, and once received, you’re ready to start working as an SPSV driver.
Additional Tips for Starting Your Career
At the beginning of your career, consider renting an SPSV vehicle instead of purchasing one. This reduces your initial investment and ensures you have a fully licensed and insured vehicle to begin with. Later, you can explore how to obtain an SPSV Vehicle Licence if you wish to own your car.
Summary of Steps
1 - Prepare for and pass the SPSV Exam.
2- Pass the SPSV Exam.
3 - Complete the free online Safeguarding and Disability Awareness course.
4 - Apply for the SPSV Driver Licence and submit all required documents.
5 - Complete the Garda vetting process.
6 - Obtain your SPSV Driver Display Card and Smart Card and start working.
Becoming an SPSV driver may seem like a lot of work, but by taking it step by step, you’ll find it manageable. Good luck in your new career, and remember that resources like Taxischool can help you prepare for success.
Posted by Taxischool on 06/01/2025