Good news.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has confirmed that online theory tests will be made available by the end of May. RSA Spokesman Brian Farrell told MidWest Radio that they are hoping to accommodate 4,000 tests a month, but are still hoping to reopen physical test centres in the near future. "We hope to have a monthly output of about 4,000 tests a month, but it won't be until later in the year that we can accommodate significant numbers of online theory tests," he said. "That's why it really is the reopening of the actual physical test centres, where we can deliver 50,000 tests a month, that the solution lies for the theory tests." Unfortunately, the online tests will only be available to people who are sitting exams to get a learner permit for a bus or a truck, to begin with. However, the assessments will expand to include theory tests for cars in the coming months. From 10 May ‘essential workers’ can take Essential Driver Training (EDT) lessons with an Approved Driving Instructor. EDT lessons will apply to any essential workers as well as people who already began their lessons before level five restrictions came into place. The RSA will reopen its EDT Online Portal, at 12 pm on 10 May. To apply for lessons you must fill out this form to "self-declare" your status as an essential worker.