The European Union (EU) is preparing to implement new driving license rules, aiming to improve road safety across Europe. One significant change is the extension of the driver's license validity period from 10 to 15 years.
This measure aims to modernise driving policies and will be applied in all member countries, including Portugal, to promote safety on European roads.
The EU legislative proposal is not limited to just extending the validity period for category A and B driver's licenses, which include motorcycles, cars, agricultural machinery and small vans. Licenses for heavy vehicles, buses and trucks will have to be renewed every 5 years.
New methods of assessing drivers' physical and mental condition were also approved, including self-assessment of vision and cardiovascular fitness as part of the renewal process.
Currently, in Portugal, requirements for renewing a driver's license vary: drivers of light vehicles must present a medical certificate at age 60, while drivers of heavy vehicles must do so before age 50. These rules vary considerably between EU countries.
