Northern Ireland has announced plans to introduce Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) from October 2026.
Speaking on 27 January, Northern Ireland’s infrastructure minister Liz Kimmins described the move as “the most significant reform to driver licensing and testing in almost 70 years”.
The GDL system, announced as part of the nation’s new Road Safety Strategy Action Plan, will include:
- A mandatory minimum learning period of six months before a learner driver can undertake their practical driving test
- A programme of training that details the learning required to become a safe driver, and which must be completed and recorded in a logbook before a learner driver can undertake their practical driving test
- An increase in the restriction period from the current 12 months to 24 months requiring new drivers to display a distinguishing mark (plate) on the vehicle for two years after receiving a full licence
- A period of six months with nighttime driving restrictions for new drivers under 24
- Age related nighttime passenger restrictions for newly qualified drivers, with exemption for immediate family members.
- GDL permits ‘L’ drivers to drive on a motorway as long as they are accompanied by an Approved Driving Instructor. Once the learner passes their test, they will be issued with the new ‘R’ plate which also allows them to drive on a motorway, where they can drive up to the posted speed limit.
Minister Kimmins said: “Today I am announcing the most significant reform to driver licensing and testing in almost 70 years. These changes are aimed at young drivers who are sadly most likely to be killed or seriously injured on our roads.
“In 2024, there were 164 casualties (killed or seriously injured) from collisions where a car driver aged 17-23 was responsible. This age group of drivers account for 24% of fatal or serious collisions despite holding just 8% of licences.
“Behind these figures are too many shattered lives as loved ones who set off on an everyday journey suffer life changing injuries or are never coming home to their family and friends.
“The fundamental goal of learning to drive and the licensing process should be to create drivers and motorcyclists who are safe, and not just technically competent, by the time they are permitted to drive or ride unsupervised.
“The introduction of GDL plans to achieve this through a structured approach to learning to drive, including the completion of a Programme of Training and Logbook. This will better prepare drivers for both the driving test and initial post-test driving period by helping learners understand how human factors such as their attitude, personality, behaviour and feelings affect their driving style.
“Road safety is a priority, and GDL will be a valuable tool to help me ensure everyone who uses our roads, does so safely.”
Northern Ireland’s Department for Infrastructure will shortly launch a public information campaign about GDL, and officials will liaise with approved instructors, the PSNI and a range of other stakeholders in advance of its introduction.
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