RSA Driving Test Strike Action: What Learner Drivers in Ireland Need to Know

Learner drivers preparing for the Irish driving test could face further uncertainty following the announcement of potential industrial action by driving testers at the Road Safety Authority (RSA). Members of the Fórsa trade union, which represents RSA driving testers, have overwhelmingly voted in favour of strike action amid ongoing concerns about insurance cover and indemnity while carrying out RSA driving tests.

Why Are RSA Driving Testers Considering Strike Action?

Fórsa has accused the RSA of failing to provide clear and unconditional indemnity for driving testers through the State Claims Agency. A central concern is the current insurance verification system, which, according to the union, does not allow testers to confirm whether vehicles presented for an Irish driving test are fully insured.

As a result, Fórsa argues that testers may be placing themselves at legal and financial risk when conducting RSA driving tests, particularly if an incident were to occur in an uninsured vehicle.

Strong Ballot Result Among Driving Testers

The ballot results highlight the seriousness of the issue for RSA staff:

• 95% voted in favour of taking industrial action
• 83% turnout, indicating strong engagement among members

According to Fórsa, the result sends a clear message that driving testers want the matter resolved “once and for all”.

Fórsa official Ruairí Creaney stated: “Driver testers cannot be expected to get into vehicles to do their jobs when they have no clarity on whether the vehicle is uninsured. We need a straightforward guarantee of indemnity for driver testers, and a proper insurance verification system".

Upcoming Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) Meeting

Fórsa will formally raise its concerns at a meeting of the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) scheduled for 20 January. The union has said it will decide on its next steps, including potential strike dates, after that meeting.

For learner drivers, this means the situation remains fluid, and further disruption to RSA driving test route appointments is possible depending on the outcome of the talks.

RSA Response to the Situation

The RSA has acknowledged the ballot result and confirmed it will engage fully in the WRC process. In a statement, the authority said:

• It notes the outcome of the vote
• It confirms that a WRC hearing date has been agreed
• It believes driver testers are fully indemnified while carrying out their duties as public servants

The RSA also stated that it appreciates the concerns raised by Fórsa and has been engaging regularly with the union in an effort to resolve the matter. Both parties have jointly referred the issue to the WRC in the hope of reaching a resolution.

What Does the Strike Mean for Learner Drivers

For those waiting to sit an Irish driving test, this dispute could add further pressure to an already stretched system and prolonged waiting times. Any industrial action may lead to:

• Delays or cancellations of RSA driving test appointments
• Longer waiting times for test dates
• Increased uncertainty for learners planning tests around work, college, or insurance deadlines

Learner drivers are advised to keep an eye on official RSA announcements and union updates, particularly as the WRC meeting approaches.

Final Thoughts

While no immediate strike dates have been announced, the strong mandate from RSA driving testers underlines the importance of the upcoming WRC talks. A resolution would provide reassurance not only to testers but also to the thousands of learners relying on timely access to the Irish driving test system, hoping to pass their test first time.

Until then, learner drivers should stay informed and prepared for possible short-term disruption to RSA driving tests across the country.