Driving licence rip off for Northern Ireland

BatCat

Hi Folks,
So I went to apply for my first ever driving licence.
A short google took me here:
https://www.gov.uk/apply-first-provisional-driving-licence
I can do everything online, and pay 50£. Excellent. Filled in the form and got kicked out when it found I was not a GB resident.

Sighed, went looking for something similar for NI.
62.50£ and can either be done in person, or through the post.

http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/applying-for-a-provisional-driving-licence

So why do I have to pay an additional 12.50£ for a more rubbish service? :mad:

NAR

Take it up with your MLA, they are responsible.

Buzby

Because it is devolved to the Province and has always been run on its own terms, and there are different considerations including the after-pass Probationary period (currently) not used in GB.

Just be lucky you can deal with an efficient Coleraine than the 'abandon hope' brigade at DVLA Swansea.

darwin-rover

I though a lot of the work was being done by Swansea now?
A work colleague had to renew her license recently and needed it urgently , so phoned Coleraine only to be told it hadn't came from Swansea yet.

wotnoshoeseh

Yeah, I had to get renewal recently. It cost me £30, yet in the rest of the UK it only costs £20.

What gives????

36square

It's the price you pay for having a local service which is nothing more than a job creation scheme.

NAR

36square wrote: »

It's the price you pay for having a local service which is nothing more than a job creation scheme.

You left out "inferior" service. Swansea is more up to date, offers better services and doesn't cost as much. But our muppets on the Hill would rather defend the indefensible. :mad:

Buzby

The production of the plastic licences is outsourced to DVLA but the rumour is a private outfit is taking it over. If his happens, then both Coleraine ad Swansea will be input centres only.

My London Oyster card was produced in Limerick - the fact NI isn't wasting money buying high-tec kit to duplicate what is already being produced in Wales seems pretty sensible to me.

murphy306

It is pathetic service from DVLNI to be honest, I cant wait until they go online and actually catch up with the UK. Really behind the times here, would be so much handier to tax vehicles etc online and at least it can be done anytime. Some of the staff in DVLNI are so clueless its a real laugh if you are unfortunate enough to have to go to a local office. Another feature from DVLNI is the bit where they tell you that your licence renewal/Car Tax forms etc hav been "lost" then you tell them it is impossible and that it was sent recorded/signed for/guaranteed delivery and it AMAZINGLY turns up when they go to check!