LATEST: Driving test waiting times in local Tipperary town 'have now reached 28 weeks'

Independent TD for Tipperary, Mattie McGrath, has raised serious concerns about the worsening delays in driving test appointments across County Tipperary, particularly in Clonmel.

Speaking in Dáil Éireann on April 30, Deputy McGrath highlighted that 1,926 learner drivers in the county are currently waiting for a test, amid a national backlog of over 81,000 people.

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In his Dáil contribution, McGrath described the situation in Clonmel as unacceptable, noting that average wait times have now reached 28 weeks, far exceeding the Government’s stated target of ten weeks.

“Last year, the Taoiseach gave me a commitment in this chamber that driving test waiting times would be capped at ten weeks. Yet here we are, with people in Clonmel being told to wait more than seven months. That simply isn’t good enough,” said Deputy McGrath.

“These delays are having real consequences—young people can’t access jobs or apprenticeships, and families in rural communities are being left without transport options. It’s a growing barrier to education, employment, and independence.”

McGrath also pointed to staffing shortages at the Clonmel driving test centre, where only one tester is currently assigned. When that tester is unavailable, there is no cover provided—bringing the service to a halt.

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He linked the current backlog to the fallout from a 2024 review of the RSA commissioned by the Department of Transport.

The report, carried out by Indecon Economic Consultants, recommended a restructuring of the RSA and suggested shifting responsibilities for testing and licensing.

McGrath said the lack of clarity and planning following the review has contributed to the current delays.

“It appears the RSA has been left under-resourced and without clear direction. Learner drivers are being left in limbo, and that needs to change,” he said.

Deputy McGrath is urging the Department of Transport to act without delay to recruit additional testers, prioritising staffing in rural areas without public transport, and ensure test waiting times are brought back within acceptable limits.