Gardai have teamed up with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to launch a new campaign aimed at learner and novice drivers.
The backlog of people waiting to sit their driving test has reached over 92,000, according to recent information released by the RSA.
Around 24,500 of these people are deemed ineligible for their test, having not completed all of their lessons, and so only around 57,600 of the total backlog will be able to sit their tests over the coming months.
But those of you who have already passed your test will be well aware that you need to swap your 'L' learner plates for 'N' novice plates.
However, there are certain rules of the road that apply differently to novice and learner drivers - specifically those surrounding penalty points.
The RSA say: "If learner and Novice drivers get seven points in three years they are off the road for six months.
"The reason the threshold is low is because these drivers are inexperienced. These drivers need to understand what the consequences of being disqualified from driving actually mean.
"Seven points in a three year period will mean a six month disqualification from driving."
The new campaign, which features television and radio reminders to drivers, is focused on things that drivers may not have if they lose their license or get a six-month driving ban.
The RSA continue: "This campaign reminds learner and novice drivers if they fail to follow the rules of the roads such as stopping at a red light, drive unaccompanied if they are a learner driver or use a mobile phone while driving they can clock up seven points and be disqualified from driving for six months.
"That’s six months that they wont be driving to their mates, to training, the cinema or anywhere. The message is steer clear of points and stay on the road."
.png?w=600)
