The European Parliament has taken a decisive step towards improving road safety by approving revised rules on driving licences across the European Union. These changes aim to reduce the worrying number of nearly 20,000 road deaths a year and introduce significant innovations – from digitalisation to stricter rules for young drivers.
Key changes and implementation deadlines
The new provisions, which are to be published in the Official Journal of the European Union, will enter into force on the 20th day following their publication. Member States have three years to transpose them into national law, and another year to fully implement them.
Among the most important innovations are:
Validity of licences: Personal driving licences for cars and motorcycles will be valid for 15 years, while those for trucks and buses – five years. Member States are allowed to reduce the period to 10 years if the licence also serves as an identity card.
Young drivers and companion: It will now be possible for 17-year-olds to obtain a driving licence (category B), and they will only be allowed to drive under the supervision of an experienced driver until they turn 18.
Probationary period: A mandatory probationary period of at least two years is introduced for novice drivers, who will be subject to stricter rules and penalties for offences such as drink-driving.
Digital revolution: A digital driving licence, accessible via mobile phone, will gradually become the standard format, although it will still be possible to apply for a physical plastic card.
Focus on training and medical examinations
Future drivers will have to demonstrate more in-depth knowledge and skills. The test includes demonstrating awareness of the dangers of blind spots, the functionality of driver assistance systems, and the risks of distraction associated with the use of mobile devices. Special emphasis is also placed on the protection of vulnerable road users - pedestrians, cyclists and children.
In future, a medical examination, including a vision test and cardiovascular assessment, will be required before the initial issuance or renewal of the driving licence. For truck and bus drivers, especially those over 65, a shorter period of validity of the licence may be applied in order to encourage more frequent medical examinations or refresher courses.
Cross-border disqualification
One of the most serious mechanisms introduced by the European Parliament is an algorithm for depriving drivers of their right to drive a vehicle, which will ensure that penalties for serious violations are applied across borders. If a driving licence is withdrawn, suspended or restricted in another Member State, the issuing country must be informed immediately.
This includes offences such as: driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; being involved in a fatal accident; significantly exceeding the speed limit (for example by 50 km/h).
The aim is clear: the driving restrictions introduced will now apply in all EU countries, significantly reducing reckless driving abroad.
Solution to the shortage of professional drivers
In response to the shortage of professional drivers, the new rules relax the age requirements for obtaining a heavy goods vehicle licence. 18-year-olds can now obtain a truck licence (category C), and 21-year-olds – for a bus (class D), provided that they hold the relevant certificate of professional competence.
These comprehensive changes to European legislation not only reflect advances in technology, but also underline the EU's commitment to safer and more informed drivers on the continent's roads.