EU Proposing Driving Licenses For 17-Year-Olds With Supervision
The European Union is moving forward with a proposal that would allow 17-year-olds to obtain a driving license, provided they are supervised until they turn 18.
This proposal, part of a broader revision of the EU Driving License Directive, aims to improve road safety by giving young drivers more experience before they drive independently.
This change comes as part of a comprehensive effort to modernise driving rules across the EU.
With the new law, young drivers will have the chance to gain valuable road experience, improving their driving skills and helping to reduce accidents among new drivers.
However, it’s important to note that this proposal is non-binding, meaning each EU country will decide whether to adopt it.
Some countries may choose to maintain the current minimum age requirement of 18 for new drivers.
In addition to the new supervised driving license for 17-year-olds, the revised directive includes a range of other key reforms aimed at improving road safety.
One major change is the introduction of a two-year probationary period for new drivers, during which they will face stricter rules and sanctions.
This measure is designed to reduce the risk of accidents during the critical first years of driving. As statistics show, two out of five fatal collisions involve drivers under 30, making this a much-needed step to ensure safer roads for all.
Another significant update is the introduction of digital driving licenses, which will be accessible via smartphones.
This innovation will simplify administrative procedures and make it easier to renew or replace licenses, while also reducing paperwork.
Physical driving licenses will still be available for those who prefer or require them, such as individuals who don’t own smartphones.
The directive also addresses the issue of professional driver shortages. As part of the new rules, 18-year-olds will be able to obtain a truck license, and 17-year-olds may drive trucks, but only when accompanied by an experienced driver.
This initiative aims to attract more young people to the profession of lorry driving, which has seen a shortage in recent years.
The European Commission is also focusing on protecting vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, cyclists, and e-scooter riders.
The new rules will require drivers to demonstrate their awareness of these groups during their driving tests, with an emphasis on promoting safety for all road users.
These changes are part of the EU’s broader “Vision Zero” strategy, which aims to eliminate road fatalities by 2050.
The new rules, set to be adopted in the coming months, are a significant step towards making Europe’s roads safer for everyone.
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