The current waiting time for learner drivers to take their driving test is “not good enough”, according to the RSA Chief Operations Officer. 

Learner drivers are currently waiting up to 30 weeks for their test, despite the fact that eligible drivers are supposed to receive a test within 10 weeks of applying. 

Speaking at the Oireachtas Transport Committee, RSA Chief Operations Officer Brendan Walsh said the current backlog is due to an “unprecedented” level of applications combined with staffing issues. 

“Over the past 20 months, we have seen applications for driving tests at unprecedented levels,” he said. 

“For example, up to the end of year of August, we received 170,826 applications versus 169,237 for the full year in 2018.” 

He said there is 53% increase in people getting learner permits, particularly among 17 to 20-year-olds, which is up 64%. 

The backlog in waiting times for tests caused by COVID-19 was cleared by early 2022 when waiting times fell to six weeks, according to Mr Walsh. 

Back on target by 'mid-2024'

Mr Walsh said he is confident the RSA will bring waiting times down, but this may not happen until the middle of next year. 

“I do believe that is a fair and reasonable target,” he said. “And I believe that it's a target that we will be back towards by mid-2024.” 

The RSA will return before the Oireachtas Transport Committee next week to discuss road safety issues. 

There has been a 24% increase in deaths so far this year compared to figures last year as roughly 130 people have died in traffic collisions as of September.