RSA driving test B+E waiting times

10-12 weeks is way too long. That's the whole problem, I think that's pretty straightforward. It's simply not reasonable. 12 weeks is 3 months.

Would you say waiting for an operation 4 years is reasonable? Lack of planning ffs.

This is why this country will never be on the same level as other European countries, it's just behind and forever will be. 3 months. Wtf?

I don't have problem with that however sometimes there isn't enough time to wait, and this is exactly the whole problem and it's a MAJOR problem. I'm leaving in May no matter what. I wouldn't be here in this thread trying to get answers for my questions if the circumstances were different.

You can get B96 code added to your licence elsewhere in Europe (which is very handy and super efficient), but of course not in Ireland. That would make sense and be very modern. It basically raises the limit from 3500kg to 4250kg which would be perfect for me. And I'm sure thousands of others in this country. The procedure is few lessons with an instructor, then two tests. Quick theory test and right after that you go for a spin with a tester. Amazing isn't it? All done in one day, no learners permit BS. No waiting. Done and dusted.

Btw. when I exchanged my foreign license they gave me a tractor license automatically. I never drove one, so how does that work? I guess if somebody gives me keys I can just go and hit the road on my own right? And somehow figure it out as I'm driving this 7 ton monster. Sounds like a "back of a cornflake packet" kind of licence to me. Bizzare really. Can they erase it and give me BE instead.

Ffs. I'm so done.

Entitlement? I'm pointing out the obvious, the waiting times are unreasonably long.

I just rang them and basically the system hung up on me saying the customer service agents cannot say anything about waiting times etc.

Again (like we are in creche or something), reasonable waiting time is 4-5 weeks MAX. I asked some people at work who are from abroad originally, they all basically said the same thing "couple of weeks" in their country where they came from. France, Germany, Brazil, Spain, various Eastern European countries. 10-12 weeks and more is absolutely insane.

If I'm not doing the test some time in April I'm leaving without the licence unfortunately. It will be May, more caravans around. Will blend in hopefully. Fingers crossed. Thanks RSA.

This is how they send an email confirming the application for the driving test. Low importance. It's literally the only email in the sea or email marked like this. I cannot believe this.

Well it's maybe better to move aboard somewhere temporarily and do the test there (EU), and then come back. A bit of paperwork (residency etc.) but much more effective. Knowing some people abroad would help. Maybe residency wouldn't be even needed, just an address where to send the driving licence. Fly there, do the test, fly back. I don't know, something.

Leaving tomorrow to France without a BE license, towing my caravan behind a van. 4 months is way too long to be waiting for some test really. 6-8 weeks is ok but 16 weeks is absolutely unacceptable. I could be here stuck until August with these idiots.

Did some research, here's what I found on the Internet, sounds about right:

The Irish Road Safety Authority (RSA) has faced intense criticism and accusations of being "broken" and "beyond repair" due to a combination of mounting operational failures,, a perceived lack of accountability, and a conflict of interest in its dual mandate. As of April 2024, over 30 groups, including road safety researchers, have stated the organization is no longer fit for purpose. Key factors contributing to this perception include:

• Operational Backlogs and Inaction: The RSA has struggled with massive backlogs in driving tests and National Car Testing (NCT) services.
• Dual Mandate Conflict: There is significant concern over the RSA’s dual role: it provides essential commercial services (driving tests/NCT) while simultaneously acting as an advocate for road safety education and policy. Critics argue this split focus weakens its effectiveness in both areas.
• Data and Evidence Concerns: Advocacy groups have accused the RSA of not providing up-to-date, comprehensive, or transparent data to auditors. Some critics suggest the RSA’s own studies on safety are flawed and not subjected to proper peer review, yet are treated as authoritative by media and politicians.
• Focus on Pedestrian/Cyclist Responsibility: The RSA is accused of relying heavily on urging vulnerable road users to wear high-visibility gear (personal protective equipment) rather than pushing for infrastructure changes to reduce risk at the source.
• Failed Reform and Governance: Despite reports indicating the need for radical restructuring, including calls to split the agency, the government has been accused of damaging U-turns and failing to implement necessary changes, causing frustration among safety advocates and the haulage industry.
• Declining Public Confidence: The organization is viewed by many, including members of the Oireachtas, as lacking leadership and failing to hold itself accountable for rising fatality numbers.