What speed limit applies to learner drivers in Northern Ireland?
As of 25 September 2026, a car displaying L plates in Northern Ireland is limited to 45 mph. The new Graduated Driver Licensing rules from 1 October remove the 45 mph restriction for newly qualified drivers, but the learner-driver rule remains separate.
As of 25 September 2026, a car displaying L plates in Northern Ireland is limited to 45 mph. That limit applies to the vehicle displaying L plates, even if the person driving it is not a learner.
Northern Ireland's new Graduated Driver Licensing rules begin on 1 October 2026. Under those rules, newly qualified drivers will still display R plates but will no longer have a special 45 mph speed restriction. Learner drivers should continue to follow the L-plate speed rule and any lower signed speed limit.
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