Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins met learners at St Colman's College in Newry to discuss the upcoming implementation of the Graduated Driver Licensing scheme.
The launch is scheduled for Thursday, 1 October 2026, marking a significant shift in how new drivers and motorcycle riders are regulated across Northern Ireland.
A revised version of The Official Highway Code for Northern Ireland has been issued to reflect these changes, which consolidate provisions from The Road Traffic (Amendment) Act (NI) 2016.
The scheme establishes a mandatory minimum learning period of six months for car drivers, though this requirement does not apply to motorcycle riders.
Learners will be required to complete a Programme of Training and maintain a compulsory learner Logbook throughout their training phase.
Current restrictions limiting new drivers to 45mph will be lifted under the new framework.
However, a passenger carrying restriction remains in place for new drivers under the age of 24 between 11pm and 6am.
Motorcycle riders are exempt from the overnight passenger restriction but remain subject to other specific conditions.
A distinguishing mark known as an 'R' plate will be mandatory on vehicles driven by new drivers or motorcycle riders for two years following the issuance of a full licence.
The period of restriction for new drivers and motorcycle riders has been extended from twelve months to twenty-four months.
These arrangements form part of a broader Road Safety Strategy Action Plan developed in partnership with the Emergency Services and other relevant departments.
Subordinate Legislation, including a Statutory Rule approved by the Assembly on 23 June, is necessary to facilitate the formal introduction of these measures.
Media enquiries regarding the scheme should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office.
The Executive Information Service provides an out of hours service for media inquiries between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays.