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The NI driving test does not use motorways, but under Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) you can drive on one alone the day you pass, within the speed limit and at a speed that suits the conditions. Module 15 of the GDL Programme of Training is the motorway module. It is the one optional module, it does not count towards the sign-off you need to book your test, and as a learner you can only do it with an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI). This guide explains what the new rules mean for your test and your first two years: whether to do Module 15 before or after the test, what it covers, and which motorway rules you need to know anyway for the theory test.
Module 15 and your test: key facts
- 15 modules in total: Modules 1 to 14 are mandatory; Module 15 (motorway driving) is optional.
- Learners on motorways: only with an ADI. Rule 253 of the NI Highway Code says provisional car licence holders must not use motorways unless accompanied by an approved driving instructor. If your provisional licence was in force before 1 October 2026, you cannot use this ADI exception until 1 April 2027.
- Module content: two parts, motorway signs and signals, and driving on a motorway.
- After you pass: you can drive on motorways without supervision, and you can still do Module 15 with an ADI or a supervising driver.
- Speed: the NI motorway limit for cars is 70 mph (112 km/h). GDL removes the old 45 mph limit for learners and newly qualified drivers.
Who can take you on a motorway, before and after the test
As a learner, only an ADI. Who is in the passenger seat decides it:
| Who is with you | Motorway allowed as a learner? |
|---|---|
| Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) | Yes |
| Parent, relative or other supervising driver | No |
| Nobody (after you pass) | Yes, no supervision needed |
Only DVA approved instructors (or trainee licence holders) can charge for driving lessons in NI.
What Module 15 covers (and the theory test will too)
nidirect lists two parts. The NI Highway Code sets the rules you practise in each. Even if you skip the module, these rules are fair game in the theory test.
Motorway signs and signals
- Motorway signals, including a speed shown in a red ring, which is mandatory (Rule 261).
- Lower temporary or permanent limits, such as at road works, which you must also obey.
- Sign meanings in detail: motorway signs and signals.
Driving on a motorway
- Joining (Rule 259): give priority to traffic already on the motorway, match your speed to fit into the left lane, and do not cross solid white lines.
- Lane discipline (Rule 264): drive in the left lane when the road ahead is clear and move back left after overtaking.
- Speed (Rule 261): no more than 70 mph, or a lower signed or vehicle limit.
- Hard shoulder: emergencies only, or when directed by police or signs.
- Right hand lane (Rule 265): on three or more lanes, not for vehicles towing a trailer or certain heavy vehicles.
Module sign off follows the normal logbook process: how GDL logbook sign off works.
Before or after your test?
The practical test does not use motorways, and the module is optional, so you can pass without it. Reasons to do it as a learner anyway:
- Once you pass, you can go straight onto a motorway alone. A first motorway drive with an instructor beside you is the safer way to learn joining and lane changes at 70 mph.
- Under GDL there is no 45 mph limit after you pass, so from day one you choose a safe speed up to the motorway limit yourself.
If you skip it before the test, you can still book a motorway lesson after passing.
Started learning before 1 October 2026? Your test date matters
If your provisional licence was in force before 1 October 2026, you cannot take motorway lessons as a learner until 1 April 2027, even with an ADI. Learners on the pre-GDL route who pass by 31 March 2027 keep the old restrictions after passing: an amber R plate and a 45 mph limit for 12 months, so a motorway drive after passing stays at 45 mph. Older nidirect pages also still describe a 45 mph limit for any car showing L plates. Check with DVA or your ADI what limit applies to your licence before a motorway lesson. See the NI transition rules.
Common questions
Can my parent take me on the motorway in Northern Ireland?
No. A learner can only drive on a motorway with an ADI, and learners whose provisional licence was in force before 1 October 2026 must wait until 1 April 2027 even for that.
Is Module 15 compulsory?
No. It is the only optional module. Modules 1 to 14 are mandatory.
Can I do Module 15 after I pass my test?
Yes, with an ADI or a supervising driver. You do not need supervision on motorways after passing, but the module is still available.
Is the motorway on the NI driving test?
No. Motorway rules can still come up in the theory test.
Does the car need dual controls for a motorway lesson?
The NI rules require an ADI but do not mention dual controls. Your instructor’s car will normally have them; ask your ADI.
What speed can I drive on the motorway after passing?
Under GDL, up to the posted limit, 70 mph for cars unless signs show lower. Transition route drivers who pass before 1 April 2027 are limited to 45 mph for 12 months.
Looking for lessons or an instructor? Our sister site Compare Driving Instructors covers lesson prices and choosing an instructor.
Related: NI R plates explained, the GDL 6 month plan and 15 modules, your first motorway drive and learners and motorways. Back to the main guide: Learning to Drive in Northern Ireland.
Sources
- nidirect, “Cat B car Programme of Training modules” (nidirect.gov.uk)
- nidirect, “Motorways (253 to 273)”, The Highway Code for Northern Ireland (nidirect.gov.uk)
- nidirect, “What Graduated Driver Licensing means for learner drivers” (nidirect.gov.uk)
- nidirect, “Minimum ages and rules for learner drivers and riders” (nidirect.gov.uk)
- nidirect, “Find driving or motorcycle instructors” (nidirect.gov.uk)
- Department for Infrastructure, “Graduated Driver Licensing” FAQs (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk)
- Department for Infrastructure, The Motorways Traffic (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026, SR 2026/143, regulation 4 (new regulation 11(2) and 11(3)) (legislation.gov.uk)