Driver Shortage Could Impact Christmas Supply
- the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has called on the Irish Government to take action to reduce the time and cost associated with obtaining Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV)...
- Hyland, has publicly criticized the Road Safety authority (RSA) for its handling of the backlog in the test system for both rigid and articulated truck drivers.
- Hyland also highlighted the "gross under portrayal" of women in the irish haulage industry and advocated for initiatives to increase female driver participation.He further emphasized the need to...
Irish Hauliers Call for Action on HGV Licensing and Support
Table of Contents
Published September 13, 2025, 12:57:21 PM
HGV License Backlog and Costs
the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has called on the Irish Government to take action to reduce the time and cost associated with obtaining Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) licenses. According to the IRHA,prospective drivers are discouraged by waiting times of up to two years for a test,coupled with the significant expense of driver training courses.
IRHA representative, Mr. Hyland, has publicly criticized the Road Safety authority (RSA) for its handling of the backlog in the test system for both rigid and articulated truck drivers. The delays are exacerbating existing driver shortages within the Irish haulage industry.
Diversity and Foreign Worker Recruitment
Mr. Hyland also highlighted the “gross under portrayal” of women in the irish haulage industry and advocated for initiatives to increase female driver participation.He further emphasized the need to simplify the process for haulage companies to recruit drivers and mechanics from outside of Ireland.
A key obstacle, according to mr. Hyland, is a disconnect between the Department of TransportS license exchange program and the visa requirements imposed by the Department of Foreign Affairs.This misalignment creates bureaucratic hurdles for qualified drivers seeking to work in Ireland. the IRHA believes a coordinated approach between these departments is crucial.
RSA Response and Increased Testing Capacity
Responding to the IRHA’s concerns, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) stated that it has made an “extraordinary effort” to increase testing capacity for truck drivers in recent weeks.The RSA reported that over 1,300 tests in Category C and D (truck and bus) were conducted in August, a significant increase compared to the 850 tests administered in July. Road Safety Authority
The RSA anticipates exceeding overall testing volumes in higher categories throughout 2025 compared to 2024. The authority affirmed its commitment to providing timely access to all driving tests, though it did not specify a timeline for eliminating the existing backlog.
Transition to Sustainable Fuels and Budget Expectations
Beyond licensing issues, delegates at the conference also called for increased financial support for hauliers as they transition to more environmentally friendly fuel sources, such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). HVO is a renewable diesel option that can considerably reduce carbon emissions. Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications – Sustainable Fuels
Delegates indicated they will be closely monitoring the upcoming budget to determine what measures the government will take to address their demands. The IRHA is expected to lobby for tax incentives, grants, or other financial assistance to offset the costs associated with adopting sustainable fuel technologies.