Northern Ireland to Introduce Graduated Driving Licence for New Drivers from 2026

Published Date :

6 February 2026

Northern Ireland to Introduce Graduated Driving Licence in 2026 – What Learner Drivers Need to Know

Northern Ireland is set to become the first part of the UK to introduce Graduated Driving Licensing (GDL), bringing major changes for learner and newly qualified drivers from 1 October 2026.

The reforms have been described by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins as the most significant update to driver licensing and testing in almost 70 years, with a strong focus on improving road safety for young and inexperienced drivers.

What Is a Graduated Driving Licence (GDL)?

A Graduated Driving Licence is a road safety system designed to reduce serious and fatal crashes involving new drivers. It works by introducing a structured learning period followed by temporary restrictions after passing the driving test.

The system is widely used in other countries and is proven to lower collision rates among young drivers.

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Key GDL Changes for Learner Drivers in Northern Ireland

If the proposals are implemented as planned, the new GDL system will include:

Minimum 6-month learning period before taking the practical driving test
Mandatory training programme, recorded in an official learner logbook
Extended restriction period from 12 months to 24 months after passing
Requirement to display an ‘R’ plate for two years after qualifying
Night-time driving restrictions for six months for drivers under 24
Age-based passenger limits at night, with exemptions for immediate family
Motorway driving permitted for learner drivers, when accompanied by a qualified driving instructor
Newly qualified drivers with an ‘R’ plate will also be allowed to use motorways at the national speed limit

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Why the Graduated Driving Licence Is Being Introduced

Road safety figures show why these changes are being prioritised:

56 people were killed in road traffic collisions in Northern Ireland in 2025
In 2024, 164 people were killed or seriously injured in crashes involving drivers aged 17–23
This age group holds only 8% of driving licences, yet accounts for 24% of fatal or serious collisions

According to the Infrastructure Minister, these statistics highlight the need for a system that better prepares young drivers for real-world driving conditions.

Focus on Safer Driving Behaviour

The GDL framework is designed not only to improve driving skills but also to address human factors such as:

Driver attitude and decision-making
Risk awareness and behaviour
Emotional control and confidence behind the wheel

The aim is to create drivers who are not just test-ready, but road-ready.

When Will GDL Start?

The target introduction date is 1 October 2026, and a public road safety awareness campaign is expected to launch ahead of the rollout.

At JNDS Online, we will continue to track these changes and guide learner drivers through any future updates that may affect driving lessons, testing, or newly qualified drivers across the UK.

Source Reference: Original reporting by ITV News/UTV. For the full story, please visit: ITV News: NI first in UK to introduce graduated driving licences

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