BUS / COACH · IRELAND
Bus Licence Ireland: D1, D & Driver CPC Guide
Bus and coach driving uses the D licence group. A professional bus driver normally needs both the correct full driving-licence category and Driver CPC.Checked against current official Irish information: 9 September 20261. Start from a full category B licence
RSA’s professional bus-driver pathway requires a full valid category B licence, normal residence in Ireland and medical fitness for bus driving.
2. Pass the bus theory test
Pass the relevant category D theory test before applying for the bus learner permit. RSA currently describes the category D theory test as 100 multiple-choice questions with at least 74 correct answers required to pass.
3. Obtain the correct D1 or D learner permit
Use the NDLS licence-category definitions to choose the permit that matches the passenger vehicle you intend to drive. D1 and D are different categories and the vehicle specification matters.
4. Train and pass the practical driving test
Use a suitable insured and roadworthy bus for the practical test and follow the current RSA document and vehicle requirements.
5. Complete Driver CPC for professional bus driving
If you will carry passengers professionally, Driver CPC is normally part of the qualification. The CPC pathway includes theory, case study, practical and walkaround testing plus ongoing periodic training.
6. Extra operator or vehicle licensing can apply
Driving a bus is different from operating a passenger-transport business. Large public service vehicles and road passenger transport operators can require separate vehicle/operator licensing. Those requirements belong to the operator or vehicle side, not merely the driver-licence side.