Major changes to driving licenses: Some new rules apply next year, here are the details

The European Union is set to introduce its most significant overhaul of driving license systems in nearly two decades, bringing forth a wave of new regulations designed to modernize and harmonize driving standards across member states.

A key innovation will be the introduction of a mobile driving license, securely stored within the European digital identity wallet. While digital and physical licenses will hold equal validity, citizens will retain the option to request a physical card or possess both formats. The directive also introduces provisions for driving with a supervisor from the age of 17, aiming to provide novice drivers with more supervised experience before full licensure.

Furthermore, the reforms establish common rules for novice drivers and enhance the effectiveness of cross-border enforcement for driving bans. For instance, if a driver commits a serious offense in a country other than their own, the issuing country will be notified. This allows for the suspension or restriction of the license to be enforced throughout the Union, particularly for offenses like drunk driving, speeding, or causing death or serious injury.

Other changes include updated medical examination requirements, potential for alternative powertrain vehicles up to 4.25 tons for Category B license holders after two years, and a mandatory probationary period of at least two years for all new drivers, during which stricter rules regarding alcohol, drugs, and seatbelt use will apply.