Learner drivers across Ireland are seeing significantly shorter waits for driving tests, with the latest figures showing continued progress in reducing backlogs that peaked earlier this year.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has announced that average national waiting times for driving test invitations have fallen to 14.4 weeks as of 12 July 2025, beating their mid-July target of 18 weeks by 20%. This represents a notable improvement from the 16.3 weeks recorded just two weeks prior and a dramatic reduction from the peak of 27 weeks experienced at the end of April.

The encouraging trend puts the RSA firmly on track to achieve its ambitious target of 10-week waiting times by September 2025, offering hope to thousands of learner drivers who have been affected by lengthy delays.

The improvements come as part of the RSA’s comprehensive Driving Test Action Plan, which has seen significant investment in expanding capacity and streamlining operations across the country. This week alone, 10 new driving testers have joined the service, with an additional 17 testers currently beginning their training programme.

Infrastructure expansion is also progressing, with new test centres planned for Drogheda and Sandyford, both set to become operational by September. Meanwhile, the temporary facility in Naas has been expanded to accommodate growing demand whilst negotiations continue for a permanent location in the area.

Sarah O’Connor, RSA Director of Partnerships and External Affairs, said:

“This steady reduction in waiting times shows that our Driving Test Action Plan is working. We’ve made real progress, but we know there’s more to do. With new testers coming on board and new centres opening, we’re committed to keeping this momentum going and reaching our 10-week target by September.”

The RSA continues to monitor test demand closely and has committed to implementing further measures where necessary to improve access to driving tests for learner drivers nationwide.

For learner drivers in Cork and surrounding areas, the improved waiting times offer welcome relief as they work towards gaining their full driving licences. The authority’s progress suggests that the significant delays experienced earlier this year are being systematically addressed through targeted recruitment and facility expansion.