05.11.2025. The new European Directives on driving licences and certain driving disqualifications have been published today in the Official Journal of the European Union.
These publications mark the completion of the EU’s major revision of driving licence rules — part of the Road Safety Package 2023, which aims for zero road deaths and serious injuries by 2050.
Background
- The revision process began in March 2023 with a European Commission proposal.
- December 2023: The Council adopted its general approach.
- February 2024: The European Parliament adopted its text.
- May 2025: A provisional political agreement was reached in trilogue.
- 21 October 2025: The European Parliament formally approved the new rules.
The legislative procedure is now complete. The Directives will enter into force 20 days after publication, and Member States will have three years to transpose the new rules, plus one additional year to prepare for implementation.
Key Updates
- Digital licence valid EU-wide by 2030, optional alongside the physical card.
- Licence validity: 15 years for cars and motorcycles (10 years if used as ID), 5 years for trucks and buses.
- Medical checks: Mandatory checks for drivers over 70 abolished; self-assessment may be used.
- Accompanied driving: Extended to 17-year-olds and Class C trucks.
- Probation & sanctions: EU-wide minimum two-year probation with stricter alcohol/drug rules.
- Cat. B upgrades: Drivers may operate camper vans up to 4.25 t with appropriate training.
- EU-wide enforcement: Driving bans and licence withdrawals recognized across Member States.
Official Publications
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