A reform that looks at safety, but also at the future of mobility in Europe.
The European Parliament has just approved the new directives on driving licences: important news for those who get behind the wheel – from 17-year-olds to more experienced drivers – with the aim of reducing road deaths, which still number almost 20 thousand on the continent every year.
Behind the wheel at 17, but only with an expert companion
The most obvious innovation concerns the youngest: 17-year-old boys and girls will be able to obtain a B driving licence, but with a specific condition: they will only be able to drive if accompanied by an experienced adult until they reach the age of 18. The age also drops for C to 18 and D to 21
Furthermore, for all new drivers there will be a probationary period of at least two years, during which the sanctions will be more severe in case of driving while intoxicated, failure to wear a seat belt or violation of safety regulations.
More “aware” exam: pay attention to pedestrians, cyclists and distractions
The driving license test will be updated to reflect today’s reality. There will be new questions about blind spots, driver assistance devices, safe door opening and above all the risks related to smartphone distraction.
But the most significant innovation is cultural: the training will finally focus on awareness of the most vulnerable road users – pedestrians, children, cyclists – to promote more respectful and safe mobility for everyone.
License valid for 15 years (but not for everyone)
The validity of the car and motorbike license will be 15 years, but each country will be able to reduce it to 10 years if it also uses it as an identity document, as happens in Italy.
For those over 65, governments will be able to establish more frequent renewals or additional health checks. Before issuing or renewing, a medical examination with checks on vision and cardiovascular health will be mandatory. Some countries may also opt for periodic self-assessment systems.
Young professional drivers and “portable” driving licenses in Europe
The new rules also serve to address the shortage of professional drivers: 18-year-olds will be able to obtain a truck licence, and 21-year-olds a bus licence, as long as they have a professional certificate.
What about those who break the rules? In the event of withdrawal or suspension of the licence, the decision will be shared between all member states: no more “loopholes” between different countries for those who drive dangerously or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The new rules will come into force 20 days after publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. States will have three years to implement them and a further year to implement them.
A reform that aims to combine safety, education and mutual respect. Now it will be up to individual states to implement the new directives within three years.
