Organisation: Department for Infrastructure (Northern Ireland)
Date of Launch: 1 October 2026
Uploaded to Knowledge Centre: 6 October 2026
A new Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) scheme came into effect in Northern Ireland on 1 October 2026, marking what the Department for Infrastructure describes as the most significant reform to driver licensing and testing in almost 70 years.
The scheme introduces a revised training, testing and post-test framework for new drivers and motorcycle riders, with the aim of reducing the disproportionate involvement of young and novice road users in fatal and serious collisions.
The launch follows a public information campaign which began in August.
Find out more about GDL in Northern Ireland: