Reinstating recognition rights to ex-NI/ex-GB driving licences holders who return to live in NI with an EEA driving licence - proposed consultation and subsequent legislative amendments - Screening Form

The policy intention is to close a recently identified legislative gap in NI which means that a former holder of a NI or GB driving licence, who became resident in the European Economic Area (EEA) and who subsequently exchanged their licence (as required by many EEA countries) for an EEA licence, does not hold a “Community licence” under NI law if they become resident in NI again. The holder of a “Community licence” may drive in NI a motor vehicle of any class which they are authorised by their Community licence to drive, including after they become resident in NI, but since 1 January 2021 this has not applied to EEA licences issued in exchange for a NI or GB licence.