Approved yesterday, March 25th 2025, the European Union is to introduce a digital driving license from 2030, recognized in all Member States of the European Union.
The agreement is part of the revision of the directive on driving licenses and aims to harmonize standards and simplify processes for European drivers. There are also a few possible changes to current driving license rules and regulations.
The new digital driving licence is expected to be launched by 2030. Although it will have an electronic version, there will still be a physical version. This will be valid in all EU countries for a period of 15 years for cars and motorcycles. However, if it is used as an identification document, the validity will be reduced to 10 years.
Stricter probationary period
New drivers will have to serve a probationary period of at least two years. During this period, they will be subject to stricter rules, including harsher penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol, not wearing a seatbelt or not using child restraint systems.
Driving license suspended in case of serious infractions
The new legislation provides for the suspension of driving licences across the EU for drivers who commit serious offences. This means that a driver penalised in one EU country will not be able to simply obtain a new licence in another Member State, ensuring stricter controls on repeat offenders.
Zero tolerance for drunk driving
The new regulation encourages Member States to adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards drinking and driving. The measure aims to reduce road accidents and improve safety on European roads.
Possibility to drive at 17 years old
Another new feature of the directive is the possibility for Member States to authorise the issuing of driving licences to young people aged 17 and over. They will be able to drive, provided they are accompanied by an experienced adult. This measure also applies to truck drivers, although in this case they will only be able to drive in their country of origin.
Objective: more drivers for the professional sector
The reduction of the minimum age for truck driving is a response to the shortage of drivers in the transport sector. This measure also aims to ensure that access to the profession is easier without compromising road safety.
Ease for drivers moving to another country
The directive also introduces improvements for drivers who live in a country other than the one where they obtained their driving licence. The EU aims to standardise procedures, making it easier for drivers who move between Member States to renew and obtain new licences.
Stricter rules for professional drivers
Professional drivers will be subject to stricter requirements, including regular medical checks and ongoing training. The aim is to increase road safety and ensure that HGV drivers keep their skills up to date throughout their careers.
Directive approval process
The provisional agreement on these new rules still needs to be formally approved by member states' representatives and the European Parliament. Once adopted, EU countries will have four years to transpose the directive into national law.
Digital system to facilitate verification
The implementation of the digital driving licence will make it easier to check the validity of licences, allowing authorities to carry out faster and more effective checks. In addition, this system can be integrated with national databases to simplify processes such as renewals and reissues.
Impact on road safety
With these new measures, the EU aims to significantly reduce the number of road accidents. The focus on digitalisation, driver training and stricter rules for new drivers are important steps towards ensuring safer roads across the EU.
Source https://postal.pt/ - Photo courtesy of Depositphotos.com
