About Us
Preferential Safety is a trusted provider of advanced driver training, founded on decades of frontline emergency service experience. The company is led by a highly qualified instructor who holds a RoSPA International Diploma in Advanced Driving Instruction and brings 38 years of service in the fire sector, including roles as Station Officer and Training Officer in Waterford Fire Station.
Established in 2005, Preferential Safety was created with a clear mission, to deliver high-quality driver safety training built on real-world expertise. Since then, the company has provided a reliable and professional service for over 20 years, supporting clients across Waterford and nationwide with industry-leading instruction and a strong commitment to road safety.
How We Help
Preferential Safety is Munster’s premier driver training provider and one of Ireland’s foremost specialists in advanced driver development.
Headquartered in Waterford, the company delivers a comprehensive suite of critical training services to clients nationwide, maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and excellence across every engagement.
Our elite team of instructors brings unparalleled expertise, having delivered advanced driver training across some of Ireland’s most demanding and respected organisations, including An Garda Síochána, Local Authority Fire Services, the National Ambulance Service, and the Irish Defence Forces.
Our Expertise
Preferential Safety is a trusted provider of advanced driver training, founded on decades of frontline emergency service experience. The company is led by a highly qualified instructor who holds a RoSPA International Diploma in Advanced Driving Instruction and brings 38 years of service in the fire sector, including roles as Station Officer and Training Officer in Waterford Fire Station
What We Deliver
We offer a comprehensive range of professional training services tailored to both individuals and organisations, covering everything from road safety to workplace compliance. Our driving instruction includes motorcycle, jeep and trailer, C1 light truck/ambulance, rigid and articulated truck, and bus lessons, alongside specialised programmes such as ESDS driver training, RoSPA advanced driving, and emergency services driver training.
We also provide expert 4x4 operator and winch training (LANTRA accredited), advanced driving and severe weather handling, and driving-for-work assessments. In addition, our safety and compliance training covers load securing, emergency response and fire training, as well as confined space training at low, medium, and high-risk levels. To support workplace safety, we also deliver courses in abrasive wheels, manual handling, and essential compliance-based training, ensuring your team is fully prepared, qualified, and confident in any environment.
Client Experiences
"I got lessons with Paul O’Dwyer from Preferential Safety and thanks to Paul I passed my Category A motorcycle test on my 1st attempt. His attention to detail is second to none, he has patience in abundance and God knows he needed them!! I was busy with work so he accommodated me at weekends which I’m very grateful for. I couldn’t recommend Preferential Safety and Paul highly enough 10/10"
Paraic O'Brien
"Attended an off road driving instructor course with Preferential Safety . Their approach was extremely professional but also so enjoyable. The power point and information given, was of the highest standard, delivered by the lads, but the practical side was were it all came together. To see how when driven within the vehicles and driver capabilities. How difficult and at times impossible looking terrain was overcome. Fantastic people to deal with ."
Wayne Malone
"I did my Cat C rigid with John 2 years ago and then did the Cat CE with Vinnie a year later. Now I’ve just completed the IBT for CatA with Paul. What a great ride out on the motorcycle. Thanks Paul. Looking forward to the next lesson. All 3 lads are extremely patient and kind and happy to answer all my stupid questions, I would 100% recommend."
James Harrison
Licence Categories
We can help you gain the skills and confidence needed across a wide range of licence categories, supporting you every step of the way through your training. Our expert instructors provide guidance for:
BE (jeep and trailer)
C1 (light truck/ambulance)
CE (articulated truck
D1 (mini bus)
C (rigid truck)
C1E (light truck with trailer)
D1E (bus with trailer)
D (bus)
Whether you’re starting out or looking to upgrade your qualifications, we deliver structured, professional training designed to help you pass your test and drive safely and competently in any category.
Get The Safety Support You Need Today
To learn more about our extensive range of essential safety services, get in touch with Preferential Safety today. Our team is ready to provide expert guidance and tailored solutions to meet your needs, don’t wait, call now and take the next step toward a safer workplace.
