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Deal on updating EU driving-licence rules

Negotiators from the European Parliament and EU member states have reached agreement on updated rules on driving licences across the EU. 

Among the measures agreed is the introduction of a uniform mobile driving licence, which will be available, in digital or physical formats, for all EU citizens by the end of 2030. 

The revision of the Driving Licence Directive is part of a package of road-safety measures proposed by the European Commission in 2023.

Novice drivers 

The revised directive would update the minimum requirements on the fitness of drivers across the EU, harmonise rules on probationary periods for novice drivers, and create a scheme for accompanied driving with a licence obtained at the age of 17. 

EU rules will set a probationary period of at least two years for new drivers. 

Novice drivers will be subject to stricter rules, as well as sanctions for driving under the influence of alcohol and driving while not using safety belts or child-restraint systems. 

Professional drivers 

To tackle a shortage of professional drivers, the minimum age for a driver to obtain a truck licence will be lowered from 21 to 18, and for a bus-driving licence from 24 to 21. 

A step will be taken towards harmonising medical-screening processes applied in member states.  

When issuing driving licences, all member states will either request a medical examination or a screening based on a self-assessment. 

The provisional agreement must now be formally approved by MEPs and the EU Council. 

EU countries would then have four years to transpose the new provisions into national law and prepare for their implementation.