2026 marks an important turning point for those who dream of obtaining a B driving licence. With the entry into force of the new provisions envisaged by the recent ministerial decree, the path to becoming a driver changes profoundly, focusing everything on a key objective: increasing road safety. The changes mainly concern practical training, which is made more complete and structured, to guarantee aspiring drivers real preparation for today’s traffic conditions.
More mandatory practice behind the wheel
The first big change concerns the number of mandatory driving hours, which goes from six to eight. These are not simple additional lessons, but a more complex path that must be carried out exclusively with certified instructors and at authorized driving schools. The aim is to gain greater experience before the exam, reducing the risk of accidents among new drivers. The hours will be organized into modules of two hours each, each dedicated to a specific area of the guide.
The four modules that change training
The new practical path is divided into four modules. Module A is dedicated to vehicle knowledge, basic maneuvers and emergency management, with particular attention to ADAS systems, increasingly present in modern cars. Module B brings the student into the heart of urban driving, including traffic, priority, parking and complex manoeuvres.
With Module C you finally enter the motorway and extra-urban roads, where you face higher speeds and different traffic situations compared to the city. Module D, on the other hand, is dedicated to night driving, an aspect that is often underestimated but fundamental for learning to manage reduced visibility and fatigue.
Stop private guides before the route
One of the most significant rules is that it will no longer be possible to practice with a private companion before having completed all the mandatory hours in driving school. In fact, only after completing the training cycle will the student be able to practice outside of official lessons, but always in a regulated way.
Digital certification arrives
All the driving carried out will be recorded on the Motorist Portal, which becomes the new digital certification tool. The certificate will be valid for 18 months, allowing you to take the exam or repeat it in case of failure without having to do it all over again.
Higher costs, but more preparation
The downside is an inevitable increase in costs, linked to the greater number of lessons and adjustments for exam staff. In exchange, however, the new system promises more aware drivers, ready to face the road with solid skills and truly complete training.
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