The Driver Theory Test will be overhauled for the first time since it came into place in 2001, it was announced today.
A revision of the vital exam including the introduction of a separate theory test for candidates seeking a licence for motorcycles or mopeds will come into effect on Saturday, October 21st.
The new booklet, which will be available in bookshops from this week, will take account of legislative changes and differences in the driving structure such as the Luas trams and the expansion of the penalty points system.
Minister for Transport Martin Cullen said: "This is the first comprehensive revision of the Driver Theory Test since it was originally introduced in 2001.
"Significantly, and for the first time, there will be a separate Motorcycle test, reflecting aspects of road usage and safety, specific to this category of vehicle. Candidates applying for a motorcycle or moped licence will be required to sit and pass the Motorcycle and Moped Theory Test."
Mr Cullen said the range of topics related specifically to motorcycles would be significantly expanded in the new test.
"The introduction of a separate theory test for learner motorcyclists is an important step in developing the knowledge and skills of motorcyclists. Taken in conjunction with the introduction of Compulsory Basic Training for first-time provisionally licensed motorcyclists, these measures are a significant response in road safety terms in addressing the high ratio of accidents involving motorcyclists," Mr Cullen said.
The questions for learner motorcyclists will include topics such as skills for riding the motorcycle and road position, correct clothing and protection, stability and skidding, and increasing awareness by motorcyclists of the road conditions. As part of the overhaul the existing questions in the Driver Theory Test Question Bank will be revised.
The number of questions in the bank will also be increased from 750 to 1,250. Questions will be included on dealing with correct behaviour in illustrated traffic situations, taking emergency or corrective action, and information related to pedestrians.
The bank of questions for truck drivers and bus drivers has also been expanded. The pass mark for candidates taking the test will remain the same at 35 questions out of 40. All tests taken from Saturday, October 21 next will be based on the revised question bank.
Mr Cullen said the focus of the booklet was to make candidates better and safer drivers.