Moved to NI. Few questions before I get started... (License)

zOlt

Hi,

Just moved to NI. Wanted to get a motorcycle license back home (Dublin) for a while now, but was way too busy with school/work. Anyways, now is a perfect chance to get it rolling. So, basically I want to know what is the process... From what I understand so far:

1) Live here for 6 months (To be considered resident? Or can I go do the test now. I JUST go the NI Number...)
2) Take theory test
3) Train for 6 months (Minimum time...?) (Clock mandatory lessons and take a "skill" test afterwards, which I assume is done where you took the lessons)
4) Take practical exam (After you pass the skill test)
5) Pass the exam for full license (Must wear "R-plate" and cant exceed 45 mph... for a year) - Would this allow me to drive down south or its a no no?, as i don't believe "R" plates are recognised in ROI...

Would this be correct?
And me being a 25 y/o, without having a car or any other license, restrict me from getting, say, 250cc or 300cc bike?

CJhaughey

Try here.
http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/index/information-and-services/motoring/driver-licensing/learner-and-new-drivers/riding-motorcycles-and-mopeds.htm

zOlt

CJhaughey wrote: »

Try here.
http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/index/information-and-services/motoring/driver-licensing/learner-and-new-drivers/riding-motorcycles-and-mopeds.htm

Yea I read that. Unfortunately it doesn't answer some of the more important questions, like when is the soonest I can take the test, etc.

CJhaughey

zOlt wrote: »

Yea I read that. Unfortunately it doesn't answer some of the more important questions, like when is the soonest I can take the test, etc.

Have you tried contacting MAG Ireland or UK?
They have a flowchart showing how licensing works here in the ROI but not sure about the north.

guttenberg

1) Have you got an NI Provisional license already?
2)CBT(Their IBT) is usually recommended before doing the theory test but you can do theory first if you prefer.
3/4/5) Don't believe they have a time limit/mandatory amount of lessons.* Get CBT, pass the off road test, then the on road test. *Could possibly be wrong but don't think so.
http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/index/information-and-services/motoring/driver-licensing/learner-and-new-drivers/practical-test/motorcycle-practical-test-explained.htm

I assume by your age you'll be going Category A(full unrestricted). Personally if you can, get the license in ROI. NI's R Plate is the most idiotic thing I've ever encountered and you can get penalty points for not displaying the R plate/exceeding the 45 limit. Technically you should be sticking to the 45mph limit in ROI but your less likely to get into trouble by not displaying/sticking to the 45 than you would if you did. Madness.

Hotblack Desiato

guttenberg wrote: »

Technically you should be sticking to the 45mph limit in ROI

No that (dumb as all hell) law only applies in NI.
In Britain, RoI or any other EU country you have a full bike licence with no restrictions.