New figures show that  more than 120,000 learner permit holders who obtained their first licence between 1984 and 2016 have never taken a driving test.   Under the current rules a driver can renew their learner permit once they have booked a driving test. They do not need to provide proof of having sat the test and there is no legal requirement for a learner driver to take one.

Conor Faughnan, Director of Consumer Affairs for AA Ireland outlined his concerns over the figures.