Learner/Newbie Sticky **All Learner/newbie/Starter Questions Go here!!****

Dr. Astronaut

I've moved to Ireland from Canada, and hold a full license from the province of Ontario. I'd really like to get my M license over here, just to commute to college - I'm thinking of getting a 50cc or electric scooter. I've read all the posts about licensing and I gather that if you are fully licensed for other vehicles, you needn't take the theory test before obtaining your learner's permit. Does anyone know what I would have to do to get started, beginning with only a Canadian driver's license? I'm just not sure about making the jump to an Irish license and a different vehicle class at the same time. Is it a mistake to try to learn to drive a scooter in an unfamiliar country? (I've lived here a year, but don't drive a car here). Any advice is appreciated!!

gipi

Dr Astronaut,

Your Canadian licence will only be recognised here for 12 months. You can't swap it for an Irish Licence, so when the 12 months have passed, you will have to take a theory test, apply for an Irish Learner Permit, and take the driving test.

There's some information on converting driving licences here, including a link to the RSA who may be able to give you more information:

http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/travel_and_recreation/motoring_1/driver_licensing/exchanging_foreign_driving_permit.html

Dr. Astronaut

gipi wrote: »

Dr Astronaut,

Your Canadian licence will only be recognised here for 12 months. You can't swap it for an Irish Licence, so when the 12 months have passed, you will have to take a theory test, apply for an Irish Learner Permit, and take the driving test.

There's some information on converting driving licences here, including a link to the RSA who may be able to give you more information:

http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/travel_and_recreation/motoring_1/driver_licensing/exchanging_foreign_driving_permit.html

Thanks so much! It makes sense that my license won't transfer - I drive on the wrong side of the road, after all. I suppose I'll have to really think about whether it's worth the trouble and cost to get a new license.

Dr. Astronaut

I may have missed this somewhere in the forum, but what's the story on electric scooters? Licence required? I've heard the batteries wear out after a few years - does that make them not worth the trouble? How's the power in relation to a petrol one?

arleitiss

Vehicle categories A1/A and M (motorcycles/mopeds) is not permitted to carry a passenger.

Wait what? does that mean even when I get full license (not learners permit) no matter how long time passes I still cant carry a passenger on motorbike?

gipi

If you read the post correctly you would see the very important start to the sentence you half-copied from...

A person who holds a learner permit in:

Vehicle categories A1/A and M (motorcycles/mopeds) is not permitted to carry a passenger

arleitiss

gipi wrote: »

If you read the post correctly you would see the very important start to the sentence you half-copied from...

oh alright, it almost made me cancel my theory test. since I thought uhh no passengers? meh dont need motorbike then.

--amadeus--

This is probably going to be (another) dumb question, but anyway.

When stopped at traffic lights or junctions I often put both feet down. On the test is this allowed or is this the sort of thing you could fail on? Likewise what is the story with getting your feet back up again when you pull away?

Thanks

gipi

When I took lessons, we were shown the preferred way - left foot down, right foot on the brake. Being a shortie myself, I asked if putting both feet down when stopped was wrong - the instructor said it wasn't. He said to use my judgement, and if I felt I needed to put both feet down (e.g. on uneven ground) then do so.

paddy147

Will the EU be introducing stabilizers for all new learners???

Neonjack

paddy147 wrote: »

Will the EU be introducing stabilizers for all new learners???

Nah. That'd be a modification.

paul75

Folks, any advice on what type of bike I should be considering after I take the IBT? Essentially, what's a good bike to learn on for a year or two?

RosieJoe

What kind of bike do you like, cruisers/sports/naked?

What CC would you be thinking of getting? What will you be using the bike for?

There are loads of options there so you'll need to narrow it down!

paul75

RosieJoe wrote: »

What kind of bike do you like, cruisers/sports/naked?

What CC would you be thinking of getting? What will you be using the bike for?

There are loads of options there so you'll need to narrow it down!

As my post stated - a good bike to learn on, not bothered whether sport/cruiser/naked. I can decide on this once I've become competent and passed my test - then I can upgrade.
Also, CC will be limited because of the 25kw power limit for learner bikers.

Merch

I am getting quotes for bikes above the 25kw limit?? I asked and have been quoted prices, I pressed them for details regarding restrictions and such and they said they dont ask, so whats to stop me going ahead and getting a bike above the limit (other than the possibility of getting stopped and handing over a learner permit to a Garda) the gardai aren't going to ask for a restriction cert??

gipi

merch,

If you were in an accident and had to make a claim with your insurance company, the first thing they'll do is ask if the bike is restricted. If it isn't then as far as they're concerned you weren't licenced to be on the road, therefore you won't be insured and the company will walk away (they may pay 3rd party costs).

The gardaí do stop bikes and ask for proof of restriction if they suspect that the bike might be full power.

kevin-46

i have a zzr 400 with a fake cert just be carefully

Merch

no intention of it really, just seems a curious thing for ins not to ask for a cert?
Anyway I'm looking at restricted bikes, dont even care if its factory restricted and cant be taken off, likely keep it for years if it is a bigger engined bike anyway. Power and speed isnt my consideration, more ability of the bike to endure.

edit: Also looking for a website or anywhere really that I can check out a bikes history, to some extent, like finance, or whatever people think is relevant.

Notch000

Hi just gettign a learner now & looking to buy a bike.

question - I know the IBT is compulsury but do i need to do the IBT before you can get out on the road ?? or can i get a bike insure it & then do the IBT on that bike ???

also looking @ quinn insurance for quotes there are significant discounts for level 1-4 'assesments'. Is this a standard part of the IBT training or somehting you need to pay extra for

also how much do bike prices vary from Pre christmas to spring time price ???

Thanks

unclebill98

When I was buying the price of the bike in nov dropped by 2k come the feb from a dealer.

gipi

Notch,

You can't legally be on the road on a bike until you've passed your IBT. There's nothing stopping you from buying a bike and insuring it, but you can't actually be on the road until the IBT's done.

You could use your own bike for IBT if you have some way of getting the bike to the instruction area - e.g. a van. Might be a lot of hassle though, which is why instructors supply bikes for the IBT course.

The graded assessments used by Quinn and AON cost extra and aren't included in the cost of an IBT. The IBT instructor may be qualified to carry out the assessment, but will charge you separately for it.

the drifter

Hey all I dont know if this is the right place to post this. If not can a mod please move it to its own thread. I have my theroy test on the 5th then will get the permit from the tax office. I'm based in Limerick.Can someone recommend me a place to do the IBT. I've never ridden a bike before so I'm guessing ill need an introductory course before I do the IBT?


Secondly...gear...

With xmas coming the family are asking the usual what do you want questions...I figured i might as well abuse there genoursity :P

Helmet,Jacket,Gloves,Pants,boots....and after a while a decent backpack....

Can someone recommend brands and places to get them?

sorry about the complete newbie questions

P.S I will wait till after ive done some of the IBT before i buy the gear just to make sure biking is for me.

eurofoxy

if you are willing to travel to the ennis area,then try mo garvey its where i did my ibt, she is widely regarded as being one of the best around...

As for gear, a trip to dublin might be required as things like helmets need to be tried on first, i think i tried on well over 20 different brands and size helmets before i found a comfortable fit...
Same goes for gloves and boots, so you are better off going to a place that has a large selection, i think the best place is cotters in dublin..

the drifter

eurofoxy wrote: »

if you are willing to travel to the ennis area,then try mo garvey its where i did my ibt, she is widely regarded as being one of the best around...

As for gear, a trip to dublin might be required as things like helmets need to be tried on first, i think i tried on well over 20 different brands and size helmets before i found a comfortable fit...
Same goes for gloves and boots, so you are better off going to a place that has a large selection, i think the best place is cotters in dublin..

Excellent...sure Ennis is only out the road. Have found Mo's website and will be in contact!!!

Have no problem going to dublin to get the right gear.

eurofoxy

you will find mo is maybe not the cheapest but i can tell you i passed my test first time with very few hours on the bike and had very few mistakes in the test, i put most of it down to good clear instruction from her..

As for the gear i did attend the birmingham bike show last year, its a great place to see and try on loads of gear.. i came away with a very nice pair of sidi boots for less than half price retail... it might be worth looking into the bike show in dublin...
But as you said try biking before you spend big on gear as that way if its not for you you have not lost out on much,

I think mo will provide most of the gear for you, and when i did the bit last feburary i did it over 2 days, they were long days but it was a great achievement to get it all done, mo can also do an insurance assessment if you require that...

the drifter

eurofoxy wrote: »

you will find mo is maybe not the cheapest but i can tell you i passed my test first time with very few hours on the bike and had very few mistakes in the test, i put most of it down to good clear instruction from her..

As for the gear i did attend the birmingham bike show last year, its a great place to see and try on loads of gear.. i came away with a very nice pair of sidi boots for less than half price retail... it might be worth looking into the bike show in dublin...
But as you said try biking before you spend big on gear as that way if its not for you you have not lost out on much,

I think mo will provide most of the gear for you, and when i did the bit last feburary i did it over 2 days, they were long days but it was a great achievement to get it all done, mo can also do an insurance assessment if you require that...

Thanks eurofoxy i dont mind paying for good training. As i said it will be my first time on a bike so i would rather be in good hands!

RosieJoe

the drifter wrote: »

I've never ridden a bike before so I'm guessing ill need an introductory course before I do the IBT?

No need to do any introductory course as the IBT is designed for new Riders!

the drifter

RosieJoe wrote: »

No need to do any introductory course as the IBT is designed for new Riders!

Excellent...

Did i see posted somewhere that the IBT can be done over 2 days i.e a weekend? this would suit me better with work

RosieJoe

Best thing to do is give Mo a ring to see if she can accomodate you over a weekend.

Also, see if you get a discount if 2 of you do the IBT together, most places do this. You could save yourself a few shekels doing it this way.

the drifter

Will do. Thanks for all the advice everyone

waterfordal

Morgoth wrote: »

Yep you're probably right, or maybe I did get asked a motorbike Q and just aced it anyway.



Really?! So IBT is only required for those who sat the theory test after last December? Jeez I was about to ring up and book, must look into this a bit more... Edit: okay, it's for someone who has taken out their first learner permit after 6th Dec 2010, simple as that. The more I read though, seems like you might as well do it anyway if you're a total bike newbie, since how much less would 16 hours of regular lessons cost and it looks like a really good intro.



It's being processed / in the post, will investigate when it arrives.

Sorry to bring this up again. Have been reading rsa website/citizens info.ie/other websites and I just seem to be more confused. I had a moped in 2002/03 and had a provisional licnece for it. In 2004 I got my full car driving license. Does anyone know if I am required to do the IBT training since I had a cat m provisional before 2010, or does it make any difference?

I will still be doing some form of training but would like to know if I am obliged to do the IBT.

Many thanks.

RosieJoe

waterfordal wrote: »

Sorry to bring this up again. Have been reading rsa website/citizens info.ie/other websites and I just seem to be more confused. I had a moped in 2002/03 and had a provisional licnece for it. In 2004 I got my full car driving license. Does anyone know if I am required to do the IBT training since I had a cat m provisional before 2010, or does it make any difference?

I will still be doing some form of training but would like to know if I am obliged to do the IBT.

Many thanks.

If you got you provisional licence in 2002, this lasts for 2 years so if you did not renew it has expired in 2004. After 5 years expiration you will then need to resit your theory test to get your new permit.

So yes, you do need to go throught the full process including the IBT

Here is the page you need to clear this up, do a search for "expired 5 years ago"

fleet

I'm not a learner as I just passed the full A, but I have a question.

I have A1, A, B and W on my licence now.

I want to add M as I'll be travelling and don't want the hassle of explaining to the official that mopeds are covered under A.

Do you think the MTO will let me add in this category for free?

fleet

Right, well I went in the MTO and got sorted.

Chap said he'd put the A1, A, B, M and W on it - no charge, just needed fresh photos and application .

the drifter

right..passed the theroy this morning...from reading the first post in this thread id say that a learner permit is issued for each cat.... ill be looking for a restricted 600 so is it A1 i need? or can i get A,A1 and M put on the permit?

fleet

You'll be looking for A1, A and M.

Not that it matters as you'll likely not have the learner permit for long.

The A part is what pertains to your 600cc bike.

the drifter

fleet wrote: »

You'll be looking for A1, A and M.

Not that it matters as you'll likely not have the learner permit for long.

The A part is what pertains to your 600cc bike.

Thanks!

buzz

Regarding the Module 1 IBT, do you get to even sit on a bike?

I just booked in earlier and was told it is all class room based

P.C.

buzz wrote: »

Regarding the Module 1 IBT, do you get to even sit on a bike?

I just booked in earlier and was told it is all class room based

Yes, the first module is class room stuff.

buzz

P.C. wrote: »

Yes, the first module is class room stuff.

I cant really complain, I got a groupon for 19euro...

Think its 440 for the other 3 modules?

paul75

buzz wrote: »

Regarding the Module 1 IBT, do you get to even sit on a bike?

I just booked in earlier and was told it is all class room based

Yea, classroom only - it's pretty informative though - I found it pretty good.
I booked it so that I did IBT 1 in the morning and IBT 2 in the afternoon - IBT 2 is all on the bike.

kellsbells73

areu4real? wrote: »

This doesn't answer the question in full, but this part worked out fine for me. Did theory test in '04/'05 so didn't need to do theory

A Theory Test cert issued prior to 21st October 2006 in respect of the category B (car) entitles applicants to apply for first Learner permit in respect of the categories A, A1, M and W also, provided that the theory cert was presented to the Motor Tax Office within two years of the date of issue and you have kept your car licence in date.

sorry to bring this part of thread back up but i have my car b licence since 2002 and was told that i still have to do my bike theory test,have the rules changed?

Paco Rodriguez

I am saving up to learn and ride a motorbike. My aim is to be riding a bike for touring in Europe. I am interested in harleys.

Can anyone suggest a 125cc bike to get me started, and where is a recommended site to get one?
edit... I just read up on Honda BROS 400 restricted bikes. How do you get them restricted? Do you you bring it to a garage,or do they come restricted?

Also does anyone have a guess on how much it would cost, for theory test, licence, training, PPE, insurance, tax altogether?

Thanks

eurofoxy

Paco Rodriguez wrote: »

I am saving up to learn and ride a motorbike. My aim is to be riding a bike for touring in Europe. I am interested in harleys.

Can anyone suggest a 125cc bike to get me started, and where is a recommended site to get one?
edit... I just read up on Honda BROS 400 restricted bikes. How do you get them restricted? Do you you bring it to a garage,or do they come restricted?

Also does anyone have a guess on how much it would cost, for theory test, licence, training, PPE, insurance, tax altogether?

Thanks

it simple to restrict a bike, any decent bike shop can do it, you will need a cert from them for the insurance. i think you could find one for sale that is restricted..
as for the cost how long is a piece of string... all in all my gear/helmet/ibt/further lessons/ninja 250 cost me almost 6500.... but the ninja was brand new and the helmet was 6/700 i think.
I still think i got a decent deal on everything...

Please Kill Me

Paco Rodriguez wrote: »

I am saving up to learn and ride a motorbike. My aim is to be riding a bike for touring in Europe. I am interested in harleys.

Can anyone suggest a 125cc bike to get me started, and where is a recommended site to get one?
edit... I just read up on Honda BROS 400 restricted bikes. How do you get them restricted? Do you you bring it to a garage,or do they come restricted?

Also does anyone have a guess on how much it would cost, for theory test, licence, training, PPE, insurance, tax altogether?

Thanks

God, so many questions, it might be hard to answer them all but I'll try...

Unless you're 17, don't get a 125cc to start. You'll be bored with it in no time. Get a Bros or a Super Four, both good starter bikes, OR get a Bandit 600 or Hornet 600 and get them restricted. Where to get them? Any/most dealers would be able to source one if they don't have them. Done Deal is good for second hand bikes too!

With regard to getting bikes restricted, any garage can do it for you. It costs about €250. You might also be lucky to come across one that's restricted.

With regard to total cost - well, how long is a piece of string! Theory test is what? €38 or something? Licence is €15 I think, training can cost up to €600 ish, PPE - well that depends on what you want to spend. Helmets can cost anything from €100 to €1000, and gear is the same depending on brand. Insurance, again can cost anything depending on your age etc. TRhe cheapest part is tax which is €82.

It's expensive to get into, but worth it! Good luck.

EDIT: Just copped eurofoxy's reply. Sorry man. LOL

Paco Rodriguez

Im going to go with the harley. Im torn between the Iron and superlow.

KingIsabella

Does insurance jump significantly if the bike is overpowered but restricted from a shop? I remember reading somewhere that unless a bike is factory restricted insurance will be through the roof?? Provisionally licenced and under 25 on top o that?

Please Kill Me

KingIsabella wrote: »

Does insurance jump significantly if the bike is overpowered but restricted from a shop? I remember reading somewhere that unless a bike is factory restricted insurance will be through the roof?? Provisionally licenced and under 25 on top o that?

Depends on the insurance company. They have their own pre-requisites as to what's acceptable or not.

RosieJoe

AFAIK Aon are the only crowd that recognise Factory Restricted and give you a discount based on it.

KingIsabella

RosieJoe wrote: »

AFAIK Aon are the only crowd that recognise Factory Restricted and give you a discount based on it.

So for example, whether it's factory restricted or after market restricted wouldnt really make a difference as long as its restricted? AFAYK?