Northern Ireland has introduced the UK's first Graduated Driver Licensing system, bringing major changes for learner and newly qualified drivers from October 1.
The new rules represent the biggest reform of driver licensing and testing in Northern Ireland in almost 70 years, according to the Department for Infrastructure.
Learners must wait six months
New learner drivers must complete a minimum six month learning period before taking their practical driving test.
The Independent reports that learners must also complete a structured training programme and record their progress in a compulsory logbook.
The previous 45 mph speed restriction for learners is being removed. Learners will also be allowed to drive on motorways when accompanied by an approved driving instructor.
New restrictions for young drivers
Drivers under 24 will face additional rules during their first six months after passing the test.
Between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., they can carry no more than one passenger aged between 14 and 20. Immediate family members are exempt. The restriction also does not apply when a passenger aged 21 or older, who has held a full licence for at least three years, is sitting in the front seat.
New drivers will also have to display the new R plates for two years instead of the previous 12 months.
Who is affected?
The new system applies to people whose provisional car or motorcycle licence entitlement begins on or after October 1, 2026.
Drivers who already held a provisional licence before October 1 have a transitional period. They can continue under the previous system if they pass their practical test by March 31, 2027.
Northern Ireland's Department for Infrastructure says the reforms are intended to reduce serious and fatal crashes involving inexperienced drivers, particularly those aged 17 to 23.
For drivers elsewhere in the UK, the same rules do not currently apply. England, Scotland and Wales have separately been considering a minimum learning period, but not the same passenger and night driving restrictions.
