LAST UPDATE | 20 Sep 2025

A DRIVING INSTRUCTOR has been charged with conspiring to pose as driving theory test candidates in a learner permit fraud.

Daniel Trifan, 50, of Beechfield Meadows, Clonee, Dublin 15, originally from Romania, appeared before Judge Catherine Ghent at Dublin District Court on Saturday and made no application for bail.

It follows his extradition from Cyprus and an investigation by the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB).

He is charged with two conspiracy offences contrary to Section 71 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006.

According to court documents, it is alleged that within the State, he conspired with one or more persons to make a gain or cause a loss by deception, by unlawfully undergoing driver theory tests in the names of third parties to induce the issue of driver theory test pass certificates.

The second charge stated that over the same period, he conspired with one or more persons in the unlawful use of a computer by undergoing driver theory tests for others.

Detective Garda Barry Cormack gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution.

The Director of Public Prosecutions has directed that the accused face trial in the Circuit Court, which has wider sentencing powers.

Defence solicitor Peter Connolly said that due to the nature of the charge, a bail application could not go ahead at this stage.

It must go before the High Court.

Mr Connolly also said that his client, who had been a driving instructor, currently had no income.

Legal aid was granted.

Judge Ghent remanded him in custody while prosecutors prepare a book of evidence for his trial.

He will appear via video link on Tuesday and has yet to indicate a plea. Medical attention in custody was directed.

A man and a woman have already been jailed for similar charges stemming from Operation Cartwheel, a Garda probe into the targeting of companies that provide driving license services on behalf of the Road Safety Authority.