The European Parliament approves changes to driving licenses
The European Parliament has approved a series of new changes regarding driving licenses, which will be gradually implemented in all member states, including Germany, by 2030. These measures aim to unify traffic rules in the European Union and increase road safety.
One of the most notable amendments is the introduction of the digital driving license, which will become the new standard in EU countries, without completely abolishing the traditional version. All member states must recognize the digital license by 2030.
The validity period for driving licenses for cars and motorcycles has been set at 15 years. However, if the license is used as an identity document, it becomes valid for only ten years. The validity of bus and truck licenses remains five years, unchanged. Member states can shorten the validity period for drivers over 65 years old.
Despite calls for mandatory health checks for drivers over the age of seventy, the European Parliament rejected the adoption of a uniform rule in this regard. Instead, it was agreed to conduct a medical examination when issuing the license for the first time, or to subject applicants to a self-health assessment, and member states can choose to provide self-assessment forms.
The probation period for new drivers will be standardized across all European countries to at least two years, with stricter rules applied during this time, especially regarding driving under the influence of alcohol or not wearing a seatbelt. Parliament members also called for a zero-tolerance policy towards alcohol and drugs while driving.
As for violations, drivers were previously required to pay fines only if they exceeded 70 euros, without penalties extending beyond the country where the violation occurred. In the future, decisions to revoke licenses and impose restrictions or bans will be applied to other countries, including the country that issued the license.
The amendments approved by the parliament are a preliminary agreement from the transport committee, and are expected to be officially adopted on May 14, 2025. After their adoption at the union level, Germany must amend its local laws to align with these new directives.