Jellylearn Commissioned to Develop Media Content for Northern Ireland's GDL Digital Programme
Northern Ireland's Graduated Driver Licensing will commence on the 1st October 2026, with the Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins describing the move as "the most significant reform to driver licensing and testing in almost 70 years".
What the GDL System Includes
The GDL system will include: a mandatory minimum learning period of six months before a learner driver can undertake their practical driving test; a programme of training that must be completed and recorded in a logbook; an increase in the restriction period from 12 months to 24 months requiring new drivers to display a distinguishing plate; a period of six months with nighttime driving restrictions for new drivers under 24; and age-related night time passenger restrictions for newly qualified drivers.
Motorway Driving
GDL permits 'L' drivers to drive on a motorway as long as they are accompanied by an Approved Driving Instructor. Once the learner passes their test, they will be issued a new 'R' plate, which also allows them to drive on motorways at the posted speed limit.
The Impact
The aim of the new system is to significantly reduce the over-representation of young and new drivers in fatal or serious accidents, potentially lowering these incidents by 20–40%. Jellylearn has been commissioned to develop the media content for the digital programme of training.
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