EU Digital Licences And Stricter Rules Approved To Save 20,000 Lives A Year
The European Parliament has approved a sweeping reform of EU driving licence rules aimed at reducing collisions and saving almost 20,000 lives a year on European roads. The update introduces a digital driving licence, accessible via a mobile phone, which is intended to gradually become the main format across the EU.
However, drivers can still request a physical card, which must be issued promptly, usually within three weeks, ensuring flexibility for all road users.
The new rules also focus on novice and young drivers, establishing a minimum two-year probationary period and stricter safety requirements, including medical checks before obtaining or renewing a licence.
Authorities hope the changes will raise awareness of risks to pedestrians, children, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users, making roads safer for everyone. Driving licences for motorcycles and cars will now be valid for 15 years, although member states may shorten this to 10 if the licence also doubles as a national ID.
EP rapporteur Matteo Ricci described the reforms as a crucial step in protecting communities, noting that clearer and timelier criteria for suspending driving privileges in cases of serious violations will help safeguard responsible drivers.
These changes are part of the European Commission’s 2023 road safety package and support the EU’s ambitious Vision Zero goal of eliminating road fatalities by 2050, with member states given three years to adopt the rules into national law and an additional year to prepare for implementation.
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