hi,
Yes you have to appear for theory test to apply for first provisional license. And the waiting period is not that bad at all.
Just cleared my theory test on 21st of this month. Got 39/40, was aiming for 40

(was competing with my husband). I know where i went wrong, I should have reviewed it again. Both are applying for first provisional licence. Well this is how we prepared:
1. Read the book 'Rules of the Road' (u can get it from Eason, not all easons stock it, I got mine from one at O'Connell Street). (costs 2.50 euro)
2. I bought the book containing all the possible questions that can be asked, Read that only after reading and understanding 'Rules of the Road' thoroughly. (costs 16.49)
3. Then bought the CD and practised lot of tests. It is in the format of the actual test so you get used to the screen etc (don't remember how much it cost )
So i guess its worth buying all the material and going through it rather than having to appear again and spending another 35.60.
Everything is in Kilometers these days, so u get a copy of updated questions also if u buy the book of questions or the CD.
Good luck to your wife Bertson
Regards
Ruby