Ireland’s new driver number requirement

As of the 31^st of March 2025, the government will introduce changes to Irish legislation. Anyone buying or renewing their motor insurance must provide their driver number; this also applies to any named driver on their policy. This is due to the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, which is aimed at improving road safety.

From this date onwards it will be illegal for any insurer or broker to provide motor insurance in Ireland to anyone who does not provide the necessary driver number.

What is a driver number and where to find it?

Every driver possesses a unique driver number that remains with them, no matter what vehicle they are operating. Your driver number can be found under section 4(d) on your driving licence. Your personal driver number remains the same throughout your lifetime.

Why is this needed?

This provision was included in the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, to improve road safety.

It will be integrated into the Irish Motor Insurance Database (IMID), which aids An Garda Síochána in their road policing efforts. Currently, this database contains information on the insurance policies for 3 million vehicles in Ireland, along with details on the insured drivers. This database is updated daily.

By adding the Driver Number—linked to each driver—An Garda Síochána gains a more detailed understanding of any offences committed by drivers. This enhancement makes it even more challenging for those who break the law on Irish roads to escape detection.

For additional information on IMID, watch this video.

How do I give my insurer my driver number?

OUTsurance collect all drivers numbers upfront at sales stage making it easy when you renew. As an existing OUTsurance customer, you don't need to take any action or contact us to update your driver number unless a driver or your licence changes. If you have any further questions you can contact us on 1800 600 400.

Frequently asked questions

What’s changing with motor insurance?

The Irish government has updated the law regarding the information required when purchasing or renewing a motor insurance policy. Starting from March 31st, 2025, you must provide your insurer or broker with your driver number, as well as the driver number of anyone else listed on your policy, in order to legally obtain insurance coverage.

Why are the Irish government changing their laws for motor insurance?

This initiative revolves around the Irish Motor Insurance Database (IMID), which aids the Gardaí in identifying uninsured drivers. The IMID database holds records for 3 million vehicles and 5 million drivers, with daily updates. Using a real-time app while on the roads, the Gardaí can scan registration plates. The app cross-references the information with the database, enabling them to pinpoint uninsured drivers. This system has already proven to be highly effective, and it will be further enhanced by adding driver numbers to the database. For more details, check out the 'Clamping Down on the Uninsured' video from the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland here.

Do I have to give my insurer my driver number?

It is a legal requirement to supply this information, and it will be considered an offense for the insurer or broker to issue a policy without it.

Will I lose my insurance cover if I can’t find my driver number before my renewal date?

Yes. According to the new Irish law, insurers and brokers are prohibited from issuing a policy to individuals who do not provide their driver number.

Policyholders and potential policyholders are legally obligated to provide their own driver number, as well as the driver numbers of all individuals listed on their policy.

If a named driver is unable to present their driver number, they must be removed from the policy.

What do I do if I’ve lost my driving licence?

In Ireland, you are required to possess a valid driving license or learner permit, which you must carry with you while driving.

If you have lost your drivers licence The National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) oversees the application and renewal of licences. You can conveniently apply for a replacement driving licence online here.

Be proactive and don’t wait until the last minute, as the process may take some time. Typically, your insurer or broker will notify you about your renewal approximately 30 days before it’s due.

In the meantime, you can contact the NDLS at 0818 700 800 to request your driver number. To confirm your identity, you'll need to provide your name, date of birth, and PPSN. However, it’s essential to replace your licence and have it with you while driving. Take action now to ensure you don’t find yourself without insurance coverage when the new law takes effect.

Where is the driver number on an Irish licence?

Your driver number can be found under section 4(d) on your driving licence. Your personal driver number remains the same throughout your lifetime.

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