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Northern Ireland's new drivers to face major licensing changes from October
- On October 1, 2026, Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins announced Graduated Driver Licensing in Northern Ireland, introducing a revised training, testing and post-test framework for new drivers and motorcyclists.
- The scheme targets new and young drivers because they are disproportionately involved in serious collisions, accounting for 24% of fatal or serious collisions despite holding just 8% of licences and causing 164 killed or seriously injured.
- Training rules include a six-month minimum learning period and completion of 14 modules recorded in a logbook before learner drivers can take their practical test.
- The Department for Infrastructure says enforcement will include three penalty points or a fine of up to £1,000, with officials liaising with approved instructors and the PSNI soon.
- Northern Ireland becomes the first UK jurisdiction adopting extra restrictions, aligning with Australia, the United States and the Republic of Ireland by staging night-time and passenger restrictions for new drivers.
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Great Yorkshire Radio
Great Yorkshire RadioTougher new driver rules aimed at cutting fatal crashes coming to Northern Ireland
Reforms - said to be the most significant in 70 years - will see similar rules to Australia, the US and Republic of Ireland. Campaigners want the rest of the UK to follow.
·United Kingdom
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Total News Sources24
Leaning Left3Leaning Right3Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution54% Center
Bias Distribution
- 54% of the sources are Center
54% Center
L 23%
C 54%
R 23%
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