New Driving License Rules in the EU: Aiming for Unification and Enhanced Safety
Brussels - After the European Parliament gave the green light today, new rules for driving licenses will come into effect in the European Union. The decision, reported by the German public media ARD, aims to achieve unification within the Community, with the main emphasis placed on road safety issues.
"We have 20,000 road deaths in the EU every year, that is too much", emphasizes MEP Matteo Ricci from Italy, who participated in the prolonged negotiations with the member states and the European Commission. His words underscore the seriousness of the problem that the new rules aim to address.
Among the key changes is the introduction of stricter measures for the revocation of a driving license. It is important to note that any revocation of a license in one EU country will be recognized and applicable in all other member countries. This means an effective exchange of information between the authorities to ensure that the sanctions will have their force throughout the Union.
The new rules also provide for increased requirements for students in driving schools. The emphasis will be placed on raising awareness of the dangers associated with the blind spot of vehicles, as well as the risks of using mobile phones while driving. In addition, special attention will be paid to protecting vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, children and cyclists.
Another significant innovation is the introduction of a digital driving license, accessible via smartphone. "This is a good solution, especially for young people. Because everything is on their mobile phone", commented MEP Jutta Paulus to ARD.
The package of measures also includes the introduction of a probationary period of at least two years for novice drivers. Accompanied driving for 17-year-olds throughout the EU is also planned.
After serious debates, the idea of mandatory medical examinations for older drivers was dropped. Nevertheless, individual member states will retain the right to introduce such rules at the national level, without this contradicting European legislation. This reflects the compromise reached between the different countries.
For camping enthusiasts, there is also good news: future electric-powered campers will be able to be heavier - up to 4.25 tons - and still be driven with a car driving license.
In view of the lack of truck drivers in some countries, the new requirements provide for the possibility of obtaining a professional truck driving license at the age of 18, and for a bus - at the age of 21. This change will be well received by businesses.
The question of when the reform will come into force depends on the governments of the EU countries. Remembering the introduction of the first directive for a single pink driving license in 1980, ARD recalls that the new driving license came into force six years later. The current driving license with a bank card format, which was also conceived at that time, appeared only in 1999, i.e. almost 20 years later. Today, however, the ambition is declared that the process will be much faster.