FIRST CAR CHECKLIST · IRELAND
New driver essentials: start with the basics.
Pre-orders open: estimated delivery is approximately one month from confirmed pre-order. Provide your vehicle make, model and year: front windscreen compatibility must be checked before confirmation. Submit a pre-order request with no payment collected by the form.
Wondering what a new driver should buy? Start with your driving stage and the car you will actually use. This checklist distinguishes required plate choices from optional accessories, so a “must-buy” list does not turn into unnecessary spending.
1. Check your licence stage before buying plates
For learner drivers, the RSA explains that L plates must be displayed when driving on a learner permit. For novice drivers, N plates must be displayed for two years after receiving the first driving licence. See the RSA learner-permit guidance and RSA novice-driver guidance for the current rules and any exceptions.
Choose an L set for learning, an N set for the novice stage, or interchangeable N + L panels if you want the same accessory system to cover both. The combined option is not four separate installation kits.
2. Check the car and its documents
- Confirm the driving permissions and insurance arrangements that apply to you and the vehicle.
- Check the car’s tax, inspection requirements and maintenance condition using the relevant official services.
- Get familiar with the controls, lights, tyres and visibility before adding accessories.
This is a starting checklist, not a complete legal or vehicle-safety inspection. Your instructor and official guidance should be your starting points for individual requirements.
3. Plan a clear, secure plate installation
Check both front and rear positions. A mount should hold the plate securely without obstructing your view, interfering with controls or restricting the required plate display. Confirm the mount’s fit, magnetic alignment and load capacity rather than assuming any phone mount will work.
FlipPing Plate Sets are planned without magnetic mounts in the base price. Optional suction mounts are €15 each, or you can supply compatible mounts. Front and rear installations can need two mounts. The 3D demonstration shows a concept installation; real mounting and visibility still require physical validation.
Explore the in-car installation concept4. Decide how people can contact you when parked
A parking contact tag is optional. It can offer a way to report a blocked vehicle or another parking issue without putting your personal phone number on display. A QR tag lets a visitor open a webpage and leave a message.
With FlipPing, the visitor does not need an account, an app or a phone number to submit a report. The owner manages their receiving details privately. Read how QR parking contact tags work before deciding whether one suits your car.
5. Choose useful extras after the essentials
Think about a compatible phone holder, charging setup and a simple plan for breakdown assistance. Choose accessories around your car and actual driving habits. Rear plate illumination is an optional FlipPing upgrade, not a replacement for a clearly visible printed plate.
Buying for someone else? Our first car gift guide helps you choose between a standalone QR tag and an N/L Plate Set.
Before each journey
When using a reversible plate, return it to the required N or L display before driving. The QR side is intended for parked use. Make the plate check part of the same routine as checking your view and mirrors.
Plate guidance checked against the RSA on 21 October 2026. Always consult the linked official guidance for current requirements.