Frequently Asked Questions — Driving Lessons & EDT

What is Essential Driver Training (EDT)?

Essential Driver Training (EDT) is the RSA’s mandatory 12-lesson programme for first-time learner drivers in Ireland. Each lesson focuses on a specific driving skill and must be completed with an Approved Driving Instructor. All lessons are recorded in your EDT logbook before you can apply for your driving test.

The number of lessons varies from person to person. First-time learner drivers must complete all 12 EDT lessons. Many learners also benefit from additional practice or pre-test lessons before their driving test to improve confidence, correct faults, and prepare for test-day conditions.

Most students attend the Raheen Driving Test Centre in Limerick, although some may sit their test at other centres depending on availability and location. Lessons can be adapted to help students prepare for the routes, road types and requirements relevant to their chosen test centre.

Reduced EDT is available to certain learner permit holders who already have driving experience, usually through holding a full foreign driving licence. Following an assessment, eligible drivers may complete a reduced number of EDT lessons while still meeting RSA requirements before sitting their driving test.

You can sit your driving test in an automatic car, but your licence will then restrict you to automatic vehicles only. SafeStart‘s car for test is a manual Toyota Yaris. If you wish to test in an automatic, you will need to arrange your own automatic vehicle.

SafeStart provides driving lessons throughout Shannon and surrounding areas, as well as Limerick city and nearby locations including Caherdavin, Castletroy, Raheen, Dooradoyle and Corbally. If you are unsure whether your area is covered, simply get in touch before booking.

The easiest way to get started is by submitting an enquiry through the contact page. Liam will discuss your experience level, availability and goals before recommending the most suitable option, whether that is EDT, Reduced EDT, Driving Test Preparation or a Driving Licence Consultation.

You must pass the Driver Theory Test and obtain a learner permit before driving on public roads. Once you have your learner permit, you can begin driving lessons and start working through your EDT programme with an Approved Driving Instructor.

You must be at least 17 years old to apply for a Category B learner permit and begin learning to drive a car in Ireland. Once your learner permit has been issued, you can start EDT lessons and begin building experience on the road.

There is no fixed timeframe. Some learners complete EDT over a number of weeks, while others spread lessons across several months. The pace depends on your availability, confidence and driving experience. Each lesson should build on the previous one to support steady progress.

Reduced EDT is generally intended for drivers who already hold a full foreign licence or have significant previous driving experience. Eligibility is determined through an initial assessment. Liam will advise whether Reduced EDT is appropriate or whether the full EDT programme is required.

Failing a driving test is common and often highlights specific areas that need improvement. Liam can review your test report, explain the faults recorded by the tester and provide targeted driving test preparation lessons before your next test attempt.

Yes, provided the vehicle is roadworthy, insured and suitable for learner driver instruction. Many students prefer to learn in Liam’s vehicle, but lessons can also be carried out in a student’s own car where appropriate and agreed in advance.

Yes. SafeStart offers a 30-minute online Driving Licence Consultation for people seeking advice on learner permits, EDT requirements, foreign licence conversion, driving tests and other licensing questions. Consultations take place by video call and are available anywhere in Ireland.

SafeStart’s manual Toyota Yaris may be available for driving tests, subject to assessment, suitability and availability. Drivers must be considered test-ready before the vehicle can be provided. A warm-up lesson before the test is included in the package.