ComReg operates a novel spectrum licensing regime to encourage innovation and development involving new radio technologies or services. Two licence types are available, one covering technology tests and the other covering service trials involving third parties or the public.

• Test Licences relate solely to the carrying out of tests of novel or innovative radio equipment, uses of spectrum or technologies and may not be appropriate where the applicant is seeking in the longer term to acquire a full operational licence for the service under test.
  
  
• Trial Licences relate to the carrying out of trials of novel or innovative radio services involving members of the public or other third parties. Trial licences will be available for any new service that does not fit within existing licence categories.

Both licences are intended to support genuinely novel research and development activities and are not intended for the commercial delivery of electronic communication services.

A number of restrictions apply to the Test and Trial Licences to differentiate them from other types of licence. Such details are explained in ComReg’s Application Guidance Notes.

• 05/35 - Opportunities for Testing & Trialling Wireless Services and Technologies in Ireland - Application Guidance Notes

Applicants wishing to apply for a Test or Trial licence can do so by submitting an application form with the full licence fee to ComReg.

• 05/35a - Wireless Test Licence - Application Form
• 05/35b - Wireless Trial Licence - Application Form

Futher information on the Test & Trial Licensing scheme including a list of previous licensees is available within our licensing section.