AQW 39464/22-27

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 evidence that underpins the introduction of a minimum mandatory six-month minimum learning period of Graduated Driver Licensing, before a driving test can be taken.

Answer:

The Mandatory Minimum Learning Period (MMLP) of six months is established by the Road Traffic (Amendment) Act (NI) 2016.

Its purpose is to provide learner drivers with sufficient time to progressively and safely develop their knowledge and skills by completing a structured Programme of Training, evidenced through a logbook. When combined with supervised practice, this increases the likelihood that novice learners will encounter night-time driving, poor weather, busy traffic, and other more complex situations, helping them become safer drivers.

Research supports that an MMLP provides a strong foundation for road safety. Evidence drawn from data, international practice, and policy evaluations indicates that the aim of the learning period is not only to develop technical driving competence but also to support safer behavioural development. This includes building an understanding of attitudes, emotions, and risk. A longer supervised period reinforces good habits, reduces risky behaviours, and importantly, helps ensure a learner’s confidence is more closely aligned with their actual ability.