AQW 39463/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 30/01/2026
Answered On Date: 24/02/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any exemptions that will apply under the Graduated Driver Licensing scheme for new drivers who are required to drive during night-time hours for employment, education or caring responsibilities.

Answer:

New drivers are permitted to drive at night, including for employment, education or caring responsibilities. While doing so, however, night-time passenger restrictions will apply to new drivers for the first six-months after passing their test (drivers only, it does not apply to motorcyclists). New drivers aged 17 to 23 will be restricted from carrying more than one passenger aged 14 to 20, between the hours of 11pm and 6am. There is an exemption for immediate family members or where the driver is entitled to claim carer’s allowance in respect of a passenger.

Additionally, the passenger restrictions will not apply if there is an accompanying person in the front seat who is aged 21 years or older, and who has held a full driving licence for three years. No other exemptions are provided.