Northern Ireland’s Graduated Driver Licensing will commence on the 1st October 2026, with the Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins describing the move as “the most significant reform to driver licensing and testing in almost 70 years”
The GDL system 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 night time 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 a new ‘R’ plate, which also allows them to drive on motorways at the posted speed limit.
The aim of the new system is to significantly reduce the over-representation of young/new drivers in fatal or serious accidents, potentially lowering these incidents by 20–40%
