Northern Ireland has introduced new driving licence restrictions aimed at reducing serious and fatal collisions involving young people.
Under the new graduated driver licensing (GDL) rules, learner drivers must spend at least six months taking lessons and gaining driving experience before they can sit a practical driving test.
Night-time passenger restrictions
Drivers under 24 will also face restrictions on carrying young passengers at night. Drivers who breach the requirements could receive three penalty points or a fine of up to £1,000.
The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) announced the changes in January 2026.
Collision figures
Official figures show that drivers aged between 17 and 23 were responsible for nearly a quarter of all collisions in Northern Ireland in 2024, despite young drivers accounting for 8% of licence holders.
The same data recorded 164 people killed or seriously injured in collisions involving a young driver during 2024.
Similar measures are being considered in England as part of the proposed Road Safety Strategy.