Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon will ask the Stormont Executive today to make the wearing of face coverings compulsory on all public transport.
Ministers will be asked to approve a paper setting out how the measure will be introduced and enforced.
If approved, the move will be in force from Friday, July 3.
It is understood guidance will be issued to staff ahead of that date.
At present, the executive recommends they are worn in shops and on public transport, where it is difficult to maintain social distancing.
The Republic of Ireland’s Transport Minister Shane Ross is also due to bring a paper to the Irish Cabinet on Thursday seeking approval for the same move.
Ms Mallon held talks on Wednesday with Translink and union officials.
It is believed the model of enforcement will be similar to measures introduced in Scotland with spot checks by police and fines for those breaking the rules.
Face coverings on public transport are now compulsory in England and Scotland.
This is in line with new World Health Organization (WHO) advice. It says non-medical face coverings should be worn in public where social distancing is not possible.
Meanwhile, Economy Minister Diane Dodds will also urge the relaxation of the 2m (6ft) social distancing guidance in the North of Ireland when the Executive meets today.
It comes days after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said England would move to “one metre plus” from Saturday, July 4, as its lockdown is eased.
