5,929 learner drivers received penalty points last year for driving without a qualified motorist.

The number represents an increase of 185 on the previous year, according to Freedom of Information figures released to Newstalk. 

It is against the law for anyone to drive unaccompanied on a learner permit and those who do could have their car seized and receive two penalty points.

BRC9T1 Learner Driver

Brian Farrell of the Road Safety Authority said it could also lead to a driver being put off the road.

“Normal or ordinary drivers, if they accumulate 12 penalty points in a three year period, they face a six month disqualification,” he explained. 

“But for… learner drivers in the context of unaccompanied driving, they face being off the road for six months if they accumulate seven points in a three month period. 

“So, they are playing high stakes poker if they are getting behind the wheel of a car unaccompanied and driving on their own.” 

In 2022, more than a third of penalty notices, 2,145, for unaccompanied driving were issued to people in Dublin.

In addition, 619 were issued in Cork, 355 in Kildare and 263 in Wexford.