Graduated Driving Licensing to be introduced in Northern Ireland
- Rebecca Morris
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Plans to introduce Graduated Driving Licensing (GDL) in Northern Ireland from October 2026 have been widely welcomed by road safety organisations as a significant step towards reducing deaths and serious injuries among new and young drivers.
Graduated Driving Licensing is designed to address the disproportionate risk faced by newly qualified drivers, particularly in the first months after passing their test.
International evidence shows that GDL systems reduce crashes by limiting high-risk driving situations while experience is built gradually.
The move forms part of a wider Road Safety Strategy Action Plan and reflects a growing recognition that learning to drive should focus on creating safe drivers, not just technically competent ones.
What the scheme will involve
The proposed GDL system in Northern Ireland includes:
a mandatory minimum learning period of six months before taking a practical driving test
a structured programme of training, recorded in a learner logbook
an extended post-test restriction period of 24 months
a six-month night-time driving restriction for new drivers under 24
age-related passenger restrictions, with exemptions for immediate family members
supervised motorway driving for learner drivers with an approved instructor
Together, these measures aim to reduce exposure to the highest-risk situations during the early stages of independent driving.
Why this matters
Young drivers are consistently over-represented in fatal and serious road traffic collisions across the UK. Evidence from countries with long-established GDL systems shows sustained reductions in crashes, injuries, and deaths among this age group.
Implications beyond Northern Ireland
While the scheme will apply in Northern Ireland, its impact is likely to be watched closely across the rest of the UK. Campaigners have long argued that progress on young driver safety has stalled elsewhere, despite strong evidence in favour of graduated approaches.
If delivered effectively, the Northern Ireland model could play an important role in informing future policy discussions in Britain and strengthening the case for wider reform.
Dr Ian Greenwood, whose 12-year-old daughter, Alice, was killed in 2008 when a car driven by a young speeding driver collided with the family’s vehicle. said:
“This is a very welcome announcement on Graduated Driving Licensing in Northern Ireland from the Department for Infrastructure. Credit is due to Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins for the bravery and insight shown in bringing this forward. It appears to be a full-strength GDL scheme, which is hugely encouraging.”
Jamie Hassall, Executive Director of PACTS, added:
“Graduated Driving Licensing is one of the most evidence-based interventions available to reduce serious harm among new drivers. The introduction of GDL in Northern Ireland is a positive step that reflects international best practice and a clear focus on prevention.”
Rebecca Morris, road safety communications specialist, said:
“We know that Graduated Driving Licensing reduces crashes, so this will mean fewer road deaths and fewer families having their lives changed forever. It’s also an important moment for the rest of the UK. If the scheme is rolled out successfully and delivers the safety benefits we expect, it creates a real opportunity to build the evidence base for similar reforms in Britain.”
