The main points of the Road Traffic (No. 2) Bill 2013 published are as follows:

Speeding will now attract 3 points on the spot or 5 on conviction in court (previously 2 and 4)

Mobile phone use will now attract 3 points on the spot or 5 on conviction in court (previously 2 and 4)

Non-wearing of seatbelts will now attract 3 points on the spot or 5 on conviction in court (previously 2 and 4)

The disqualification level for novice and learner drivers will be six penalty points, as opposed to twelve for other road users.

The bill will also introduce the concept of a “Novice Driver” for the first two years of a newly acquired license. Novice drivers will be required to carry an “N” plate. Learners and newly qualified drivers will be put off the road if they clock up just six penalty points under the new rules introduced. Penalty points may be incurred for failing to show L or N plates.