Graduated driving licences to be introduced in Northern Ireland
Graduated driving licences will be introduced in Northern Ireland from 1 October.
The Department for Infrastructure has announced it will introduce the scheme as part of a wider Road Safety Strategy Action Plan.
Graduated Driving Licences are intended to reduce the number of younger drivers involved in fatal and serious road traffic collisions.
The scheme will set a minimum learning period of six months before a learner driver can take their practical driving test. It will also include a programme of training which must be completed and recorded before taking a test, nighttime driving restrictions for new drivers under 24 for a period of six months, and age-related nighttime passenger restrictions.
Significant reform
Infrastructure minister Liz Kimmins said: “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 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 eight per cent 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. The introduction of GDL plans to achieve this through a structured approach to learning to drive, including 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.”
