The EU introduces unified digital licenses, new rules for drivers
The EU updates the rules for issuing driving licenses: digital format, unified medical checks, driving from the age of 17, and stricter control over beginners.
Photo: pixabay.com
On March 24, the EU Council and the European Parliament reached a provisional agreement on reforming the driving license directive. This information was published on the official website of the EU Council and the European Council.
The new rules will affect all stages of obtaining a driving license in EU countries. By the end of 2030, the European Union will introduce unified digital licenses in the form of a mobile document stored in the European Digital Wallet.
They will be recognized in all EU countries, while drivers will retain the right to have a physical card. The license will be valid for 15 years.
To improve safety, a mandatory two-year probationary period for new drivers will be introduced, with strict penalties for violations.
The approach to medical checks will also be unified: countries will be able to use both standard examinations and self-assessment.
Special attention is given to young drivers: training will now be allowed from the age of 17 under an accompanied driving program. This is expected to help address the driver shortage and reduce accident rates.
Additionally, it will become easier for EU citizens to take exams in another country if materials are not available in their native language.