As of 2025, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has announced increased fees for driving licences and NCT tests, with the new charges already impacting drivers across Ireland. Whether you’re driving a family car, managing a company car, or caring for a classic or electric vehicle, these changes are something you’ll need to be aware of. As your trusted partner in car insurance, we’re here to keep you informed about these updates and how they might affect your motoring budget.
Why Are Fees Going Up?
The RSA has raised these fees to cover rising operational costs and ensure the continued delivery of essential services, such as driving tests and vehicle inspections. The goal is to maintain the high standards of road safety and service quality that we rely on.
What’s Changing?
The changes affect a few key areas, including driving licence fees and NCT test charges. Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing:
Driving Licence Fees:
- Full driving licence: Now €65 (up from €55)
- Learner permit: Now €45 (up from €35)
- Exchange of foreign driving licence: Now €65 (up from €55)
For those renewing or applying for a driving licence, this increase can add up over time. Whether you’re renewing your own licence or managing multiple cars, it’s important to factor these costs into your annual budget.
NCT Test Fees:
The National Car Test (NCT) ensures your vehicle remains roadworthy. The following changes apply to NCT fees:
- Full test under the NCT: Increased from €55 to €60
- Retest under the NCT: Increased from €28 to €40
- Commercial vehicle roadworthiness test: A 15% increase in pre-VAT cost
Maintaining your car is more important than ever to avoid additional costs. A regular maintenance schedule can help keep your car in good shape and prevent the need for costly retests. To learn about what you need to bring to the NCT, check out our guide.
How This Affects You as a Driver
For many drivers, these increases can add to the growing costs of motoring. From ensuring your car stays roadworthy to securing affordable insurance, driving is an ongoing financial commitment. These fee hikes make it even more important to keep track of driving expenses
If you manage multiple vehicles or have a company car, you may already be feeling the pinch of rising motoring costs. To help balance things out, it’s essential to be proactive about managing your finances.
How to Manage These Rising Costs
The increase in fees doesn’t need to throw your financial plans off track. With a bit of organisation, you can stay ahead of these changes and continue driving smoothly. Here’s how:
- Plan Your Budget:
Make sure you’re setting aside money for upcoming costs like driving licence renewals, NCT tests, and maintenance. A well-structured budget will help you manage these payments.
- Stay Informed:
Keep an eye on updates from the RSA. As a responsible driver, it’s important to be aware of any further changes so you can adjust your plans accordingly. Sign up for notifications or check the RSA’s website regularly to stay in the loop.
- Look for Savings on Insurance:
If you’re feeling the squeeze with rising costs elsewhere, consider reviewing your motor insurance. Many insurance providers offer tailored solutions for specific needs, whether it’s for a luxury car, an electric car, or a multi-car policy. Be sure to shop around and ask about discounts or bundling options that could help lower your premium.
Staying Ahead of Costs: Tips for Financial Planning
While fee hikes may feel like a blow, there are several ways to stay on top of your motoring expenses:
- Set Reminders: Use your calendar to track important dates like NCT test due dates or licence renewal deadlines. Early reminders can give you plenty of time to save up and avoid last-minute financial stress.
- Consider Packages: Many driving schools offer package deals, and car service providers often have maintenance plans. These could help manage ongoing costs more efficiently.
- Don’t Forget About Discounts: Some insurance providers offer discounts for safe driving, multiple policies, or even electric vehicles. Review your current policy to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.
Keep Your Costs in Check with Affordable Insurance
Fee increases are part of life, but they don’t have to overwhelm you. By planning ahead and being strategic with your spending, you can stay in control. And when it comes to protecting your car, don’t forget that affordable motor insurance can help manage unexpected expenses. If you’re looking for a tailored car insurance policy that suits your needs, we’re here to help.
At Insuremycars.ie, we specialise in offering a range of flexible motor insurance options. Our focus is on providing the right coverage at a price that works for you.
