All European citizens will have access to a digital driving licence by 2030

National evaluation systems will remain in place for now

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The European Parliament today approved an update to the rules surrounding driving licenses. In doing so, it has paved the way for a digital driver’s license for all Europeans by 2030. As a result of the changes, a driving license for cars and motorcycles will remain valid for 15 years instead of 10.

Every year, almost 20,000 people die in traffic accidents in the European Union. The ambition is to reduce that number to zero by 2050.

Member states have three years to integrate the rules into national legislation. After that, they have another year to actually implement the rules.

The digital driving license can be carried on the driver’s smartphone.

The digital license does not mean the end of the physical copy. It will still be possible to apply for a physical driving license at city hall. The old paper versions, however, must be replaced by 2033.

Also new is a probationary period of at least two years for new drivers. Novice drivers will be subject to stricter rules and penalties, for example for driving under the influence of alcohol or not wearing a seatbelt. Belgium already has such regulations.

Additionally, the system of accompanied driving will be extended across the EU for car drivers from the age of 17 (category B). Moreover, it will become possible to ban a foreign EU citizen who commits a serious traffic offense in one member state from driving throughout the EU. This would apply to offenses such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding violations, or accidents resulting in death or injury.

Also, the B license will be valid for electric vehicles up to 4.25 tons instead of the current 3.5 tons. This adjustment aims especially to support the shift to electric vehicles, whose batteries are heavier than traditional combustion engines.

There was also a proposal on the table to limit the validity of driving licenses for older drivers, but that did not survive the vote. Member states will be able to decide on this themselves. The suitability of drivers will still be checked through a mandatory self-assessment when issuing or renewing a license. National evaluation systems will also remain in place.

Business AM

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