Driving a Lorry in Ireland on a Work Permit: What You Need to Know

Driving a lorry in Ireland can be a rewarding career choice, offering the opportunity to travel across the country and even into other parts of Europe. However, if you’re planning to drive a lorry in Ireland on a work permit, there are several important factors you need to consider. This includes understanding the specific requirements for obtaining a work permit, the process for getting a driving license, and the regulations for driving a lorry in Ireland. In this article, we will delve into these topics to provide a comprehensive guide for anyone considering this career path.

Obtaining a Work Permit

Firstly, to work in Ireland, non-EU/EEA citizens must obtain a work permit. The type of permit you need depends on your circumstances, but for lorry drivers, the most common is the General Employment Permit. This permit is issued by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation and requires an offer of employment from an Irish employer.

• The job offer must be for a period of two years.
• The role must have a minimum annual remuneration of €30,000.
• The employer must be trading in Ireland, registered with Revenue and with the Companies Registration Office.

Getting a Driving License

Once you have your work permit, you will need to obtain an Irish driving license. If you already have a full driving license from another country, you may be able to exchange it for an Irish driving license. However, this depends on the country where your license was issued. If your license is not exchangeable, you will need to go through the process of obtaining a learner permit and then passing a driving test.

Regulations for Driving a Lorry

Driving a lorry in Ireland comes with its own set of regulations. These include rules about the maximum driving hours, mandatory rest periods, and the use of tachographs to record driving time. Additionally, lorry drivers must hold a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).

• Maximum driving time is 9 hours per day, extendable to 10 hours twice a week.
• Drivers must take a break of at least 45 minutes after 4.5 hours of driving.
• Every two weeks, drivers must take a regular weekly rest period of at least 45 hours.

In conclusion, driving a lorry in Ireland on a work permit involves several steps, including obtaining the work permit, getting an Irish driving license, and understanding the regulations for lorry driving. However, with careful planning and preparation, it can be a viable and rewarding career option.