Learning to drive can be an exciting time in your life and brings with it a new sense of freedom and independence. But, in Ireland, there are specific steps, laws and regulations you must follow when learning to drive – including learning the rules of the road, passing your theory test, and getting your learner permit.
There are also some rules or the road and laws that are specific to learners in Ireland, if you don’t follow these rules you may get penalty points, a fine or worse. One of these rules is displaying L Plates on your car. Below we’ll discuss what L plates are and what this rule means for learner drivers.
What Are L Plates?
L Plates are square plates or stickers with a white background which displays the letter L in red for a learner. It must be applied to both the front and rear of your vehicle. The L plates tell other drivers that you are learning to drive and haven’t passed your test. It is hoped that other drivers will be more patient with learner drivers if they take time to turn or stall the car. However, some drivers may do the opposite.
Ensure you buy the correct L plates, which should be at least 15cm high and have a border of 2cm. It also must be a red L on a white background. You may have seen some stickers with just a red L which is not legal.
What Drivers Need to Display L Plates
You must display L plates on your car if you have yet to pass your driving test. You should have one at the rear and one at the front, as stated.
Learner drivers must display L plates on both the front and rear of their vehicles. These plates should feature a red ‘L’ on a white background, with the letter measuring at least 15cm in height and a border of at least 2cm.
For those learning to drive a motorbike, you must wear a high-vis jacket which displays the letter L in red with a white background. It should also be displayed on both the back and front of the vest/jacket.
Accompanying Requirements for Learner Drivers
Learner drivers are also legally required to be accompanied by a fully licensed driver who has held their license for a minimum of two years. Driving unaccompanied, even if your L Plates are correctly displayed, can lead to significant penalties, including fines and potential vehicle impoundment.
What Happens if I Don’t Display L Plates?
You are required by law to have L plates on your car at all times when you’re a learner driver in Ireland. Failure to do so is an offence.
Non-compliance can lead to substantial fines and penalty points. For instance, not displaying L plates correctly can result in fines up to €180 and four penalty points if contested and lost in court. And remember, the points threshold is lower for learners and novice drivers which makes it all the more risky.
Avoid these penalties by applying for your L plates as soon as you’re a learner driver and getting behind the wheel. We also recommend having a spare set of L plates in your car if one breaks or loses its adhesiveness.
Displaying L Plates: Recommendations for Learner Drivers
Keep Them Visible: Regularly check that L plates are clearly visible and in good condition to avoid penalties.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to date with the latest driving regulations so you don’t fall behind on compliance. The RSA website has a great section for learners with the most recent guidance and resources.
Practice Safely: Always drive with a qualified accompanying driver and avoid restricted areas such as motorways.
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