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FAQ's About Cars


Here you will find the answers to a number of Frequently Asked Questions about Cars. Click on the relevant question to obtain the answer.
  1. Question What is Graduated Driver Licensing?
Answer 1 Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL)
Graduated licensing aims to provide a staged progression for new drivers from initial learning through various restricted stages to unrestricted solo driving. The general aim of GDL programmes is to:
  • increase or improve training through supervised practice;
  • reduce risk by reducing exposure and increase the supervisory element, both without reducing or preventing experience being gained; and
  • delay full licensing while the person matures.
Graduated licensing can include a number of elements, such as:
  • stiffer penalties for new drivers who commit offences;
  • restrictions on new drivers, including
    • road types;
    • speed limits;
    • night-time curfews;
    • passenger types;
    • zero alcohol levels;
  • additional training/supervision periods;
  • requirements for a collision/conviction-free period before full licensing;
  • staged testing;
  • and staged learning.
Northern Ireland driving regulations contain some elements of GDL including:
  • display of R (restricted) plates for a year after passing the driving test;
  • a 45mph restriction on R (and L) drivers, limiting their exposure to higher speeds; and
  • more severe penalties for newly qualified drivers committing traffic offences. New full licence holders who receive 6 or more penalty points within the first two years of passing the driving test have to surrender their licences and re-sit both tests (theory and practical).
Carless Driving Costs Lives