EP’s Transport Committee backs deal on EU driving licence rules

A provisional deal on EU driving licence rules introducing a mobile licence and driving disqualification for reckless drivers was approved in the European Parliament’s Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN).

A revamped EU driving licence rules, agreed by Council and Parliament negotiators, led by EP rapporteur Jutta Paulus (Greens, DE), in March 2025, seek to contribute to road safety and EU’s digital transition.

Digital driving licence
Under the provisional agreement a digital driving licence, available on a smartphone with EU-wide digital wallet technology, will become the main format in the EU. However, MEPs managed to ensure that drivers will continue to have the right to request a physical driver’s licence.

Novice drivers and health checks
EU rules will set a probationary period of at least two years for new drivers, who will be subject to stricter rules and sanctions for driving under the influence of alcohol and driving while not using safety belts or child-restraint systems. MEPs secured an encouragement for EU countries to pursue a zero tolerance policy on alcohol and drugs that would ban consumption for all drivers. Before they are issued with first licence, all drivers should pass a medical check, including of their eyesight and cardiovascular condition. However, for car drivers or motorcycle riders EU countries may opt to substitute the medical check by self-assessment forms or, in case of driving licence renewal, other alternative measures.

Driving disqualification
Under another provisional agreement reached by Council and Parliament negotiators, led by EP rapporteur Matteo Ricci (S&D, IT), a driving withdrawal, suspension or restriction abroad will be passed on to the EU country which issued the driving licence to enforce the penalty and make sure it is followed across the whole of the EU. MEPs want to curb the impunity of reckless driving in another EU country.

Next steps
The provisional agreement on EU driving licence rules was approved by Transport and Tourism Committee by 36 votes to six, while the deal on EU-wide driving disqualification provisions was approved by 37 votes to five. It now needs to be approved by the EU Council, before it could be voted by the full House.

Source: TRAN

Top image by Wim Taal (AI)