A raft of rules for new drivers in Northern Ireland is aimed at making the roads safer.
The Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) scheme, which came into force on Thursday, introduces a revised training, testing and post-test framework for new drivers and motorcycle riders.
It was developed in partnership with the emergency services, other departments and agencies to reduce the disproportionate involvement of new, primarily young, drivers in fatal and serious road accidents.
Key changes under GDL
The GDL includes the introduction of a six-month mandatory minimum learning period for car drivers and a programme of training and compulsory learner logbook.
It removes the current 45mph speed restriction for learners and newly qualified drivers, and introduces a passenger carrying restriction between 11pm and 6am for new car drivers aged under 24.
The scheme also extends the current 12-month restriction period to a 24-month “new driver/motorcycle rider” period, and a requirement to display a distinguishing mark – a new-style “R” plate – on the new driver/motorcycle rider’s vehicle for two years after receiving a full licence.
Minister hails significant reforms
Stormont Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said it is one of the most significant reforms to driver licensing and testing in almost 70 years.
“GDL aims to ensure drivers are not just technically competent but also safe, through structured learning, including completion of a driver’s programme of training and logbook,” she said.
“This will better prepare drivers for both the driving test and post-test driving period by helping learners understand how their attitude, personality, behaviour and emotions can affect their driving style.
“This is a very important week as one of the most significant reforms to driver licensing and testing in almost 70 years comes into effect.
“It will apply to all learners, regardless of age, whose provisional licence entitlement to drive a category B car commences on or after October 1, 2026. It will also apply to learner motorcycle riders.
“Anyone currently learning how to drive will have until March 31, 2027 to complete their learning and pass the practical driving test. From April 1, 2027 all learners will be subject to GDL and its post-test requirements.
“Road safety is a significant priority for me and my department, and GDL will play an important role in supporting road users, improving road safety and reducing the risk faced by new drivers and motorcycle riders.”
Police support for scheme
Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson said police believe the new rules will help save lives.
“The reality is young, and new and inexperienced drivers are disproportionately involved in road traffic collisions – some are minor, some are serious and some, tragically, result in fatalities,” he said.
“The GDL Scheme will make our new and younger drivers more experienced and it will make our roads safer.”
He added that as of Thursday, there had been 49 road deaths across Northern Ireland.
“This is more than a statistic – it is families, friends, and communities whose lives have been changed forever,” he said.
“To all drivers and road users, think about the worst news coming to your door, to be told someone you love is never coming home.
“Don’t let this be you, and don’t be responsible for someone else receiving the worst news possible.
“Remember the fatal five – the five main reasons why people die on our roads – drink/drug driving, use of a mobile phone, excess speed, not wearing a seatbelt and distracted driving.
“Play your part, and help reduce the number of people who are being injured and dying on our roads.”
