The European Parliament and Council negotiators have agreed on new EU driving licence rules aimed at improving road safety across Europe, with more than 20,000 road fatalities seen on European roads every year.
The comprehensive update introduces digital mobile licences, a mandatory probation period for new drivers, and accompanied driving schemes.
The new directive also includes enhanced training requirements and measures to address professional driver shortages in the transport sector.
These reforms represent a significant step towards the EU’s “Vision Zero” goal of eliminating road deaths by 2050.
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EU countries will be required to introduce digital licences, similar to the UK’s plan to launch the service this year
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Digital driving licences available on smartphones will become the standard format across the EU under the new rules, with member states having five years and six months following implementation to introduce this technology.
Despite the digital shift, MEPs have ensured drivers will retain the right to request physical licences if preferred, similar to new licences coming to the UK by the end of the year.
The mobile licences will utilise EU-wide digital wallet technology, making identification easier whilst travelling between member states.
This modernisation aims to reduce bureaucracy and simplify cross-border mobility for millions of Europeans.
For the first time, EU rules will establish a mandatory two-year probation period for all new drivers, which will see novice drivers face stricter rules and sanctions for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Tougher penalties will also apply for not using safety equipment such as seat belts or child-restraint systems.
MEPs have secured encouragement in the text for EU countries to pursue a zero-tolerance policy on alcohol and drugs, which would ban consumption for all drivers. The European People’s Party (EPP) Group welcomed these measures as crucial for improving road safety.
To address the shortage of professional drivers, the minimum age for obtaining a truck licence will be lowered from 21 to 18, and for bus driving from 24 to 21, provided applicants hold a certificate of professional competence.
EU countries may allow 17-year-olds to drive trucks or vans within their territory if accompanied by an experienced driver, with the potential for these rules to clash with UK haulage rules, although this remains unclear.
Driving licences will be valid for 15 years for motorcycles and cars, though EU countries may reduce this to 10 years if the licence serves as a national ID. Truck and bus licences must be renewed every five years.
European Parliament rapporteur Jutta Paulus praised the directive, saying: “The new driving license directive makes people’s lives easier – more digital, more flexible, and with less bureaucracy.
“At the same time, we are sending a clear signal for greater road safety in line with Vision Zero: fewer accidents, fewer injuries, and fewer fatalities on our roads.”
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The GOV.UK digital driving licence will launch before the end of the year
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New drivers must pass a medical check, including eyesight and cardiovascular assessments, before receiving their first licence.
For car and motorcycle drivers, countries may allow self-assessment forms instead of medical checks, or alternative measures for licence renewals.
MEP Elżbieta Łukacijewska, lead negotiator for the EPP Group, called the agreement “a breakthrough for European road safety and free movement.”
“Our efforts will lead to safer roads, better mobility, fewer accidents, and stronger protection for all road users,” she added.
