Driving licence changes launching this year will restrict some motorists from carrying passengers

The rules are designed to impose fresh rules on motorists who have recently passed their test in a bid to reduce the number of young people killed or seriously injured on roads.

Industry experts have described the new driving licence rules as the most significant changes to Northern Ireland's licensing system in 70 years.

In 2024, Northern Ireland saw 164 people killed or seriously injured in accidents caused by a driver aged between 17 and 23, prompting the urgent changes.

Young drivers in Northern Ireland will now face a six-month wait before taking a practical test to ensure they have had enough training and are safe on the road.

There will also be restrictions placed on motorists to limit how many same-age passengers they can travel with at night, although an exemption has been provided for immediate family members.

Young drivers will also see the restriction period increase from the current 12 months to 24 months, which requires these motorists to display a "distinguishing mark" on their vehicle.

Any new drivers under the age of 24 will have a six-month period where they will face nighttime restrictions. These will be unveiled in the coming months.

The Graduated Driving Licence will also allow "L" drivers to travel on the motorway, provided they are accompanied by an approved driving instructor.

Once they have passed their test, they will be issued a new "R" plate, allowing them to drive on the motorway and drive up to the posted speed limit.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said: "These changes are aimed at young drivers who are sadly most likely to be killed or seriously injured on our roads.

"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."

The Department for Infrastructure confirmed that it would launch a public information campaign about the Graduated Driving Licence scheme.

Officials will also liaise with approved instructors, the Police Service of Northern Ireland and other stakeholders.

The Graduated Driving Licence system will be formally introduced on October 1, 2026, when all of the restrictions for young people will be in effect.

It has been launched as part of a new Road Safety Strategy Action Plan, which has been developed in conjunction with the emergency services, government departments and other agencies.

Commenting on the launch of the GDL, Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson, a senior PSNI officer, praised the scheme, noting that it would save lives across the country.

"I absolutely welcome this graduated response, some restrictions in terms of who they can carry, times of day they can travel and things like that because we've got to bring our new drivers on a slower journey to allow them to learn how to drive on the roads," Ch Supt Donaldson added.