11/09/2026
From 1 October 2026, Northern Ireland will introduce Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) - a new, phased approach to driver licensing, designed to improve road safety for new drivers, particularly young drivers aged 17 to 23.
GDL introduces key protections, including:
• a Mandatory Minimum Learning Period (MMLP) of six months before testing
• a Programme of Training that details the learning required to become a safe driver - this must be completed and recorded in a Logbook and signed by an instructor or supervising driver
• removing the 45mph speed restriction on learner and newly qualified drivers
• a longer post-test restricted period increased from 12 months to 24 months
• night-time passenger restrictions for new drivers under 24 years old - for the first six months after passing the test, there can be no more than one passenger aged between 14 to 20 years between 11.00 pm and 6.00 am
‘R’ plate requirements
Currently in Northern Ireland all newly qualified drivers are required to display an ‘R’ plate for 12 months after passing their practical driving test.
From 1 October new drivers must display an ‘R’ plate for a period of two years after passing their test, which will be split into:
initial six months post-test - includes age-related passenger and night-time restrictions, indicated by a plate with a blue ‘R’ on a white background
remaining 18 months post-test - identified by a plate with a white ‘R’ on a blue background
Passenger restrictions will not apply to immediate family members.
The passenger restrictions will not apply where there is someone in the front passenger seat who is aged 21 years or over and has held a full driving licence for a minimum of three years.
