The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has made a Statutory Rule entitled "The Motorways Traffic (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026", (S.R. 2026 No. 143) which comes into operation on 1st October 2026.

The Rule will amend the Motorways Traffic Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2008 to permit learner drivers and learner motorcyclists to use motorways when under the instruction and supervision of an approved instructor.

They also introduce temporary arrangements, deferring motorway eligibility for certain existing provisional licence holders until 1 April 2027 and update several definitions in Regulation 1(2).

A copy of the Rule may be viewed at DfI offices during office hours (Monday to Friday 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.) by appointment only. Appointments can be arranged either by email to TransportLegislationBranch@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk or by telephone on 0300 200 7899.

The Rule may also be viewed online at www.legislation.gov.uk/nisr.