A significant overhaul of the driver licensing system is set to be implemented in Northern Ireland, with Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins announcing the introduction of Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) on 1 October 2026.

The GDL scheme is a strategic road safety initiative aimed at lowering the high rate of fatal and serious collisions involving new drivers, particularly those in younger age brackets. The reform introduces a comprehensive framework covering training, testing, and post-test requirements for both car drivers and motorcyclists.

This initiative forms a core part of the new Road Safety Strategy Action Plan, a collaborative effort involving the Emergency Services and various government departments. The plan is informed by the latest road safety interventions and follows 2025 data showing 56 road deaths—a 19% decrease from the 69 fatalities recorded in 2024.

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."

The new GDL framework will include several key mandates:

Mandatory Learning: A minimum six-month learning period before a candidate can sit a practical driving test.

Structured Training: Completion of a formal training programme and logbook prior to testing.

Extended Restrictions: The period for displaying distinguishing plates (R plates) will increase from 12 months to 24 months.

Nighttime Limits: A six-month restriction on nighttime driving for new motorists under the age of 24.

Passenger Restrictions: Age-related passenger limits at night for new drivers, with exemptions for immediate family members.

Motorway Access: 'L' drivers will be permitted on motorways when accompanied by an Approved Driving Instructor. Post-test, 'R' plate drivers will also be allowed on motorways at the posted speed limit.

The Department for Infrastructure plans to launch a public information campaign shortly. Officials will also engage with the PSNI, driving instructors, and other key stakeholders to prepare for the transition in 2026.