Digital driver’s license and more
The European Parliament approved new driver’s license rules in the European Union on Tuesday.
The European Parliament approved new driver’s license rules in the European Union on Tuesday. EU driver’s licenses for cars and motorcycles will now be valid for fifteen years. There will also be a new digital driver’s license. This does not replace the physical driver’s license, but both will be valid, as determined by the parliamentarians.
There will also be EU rules for novice drivers. Drivers who have had their license for less than two years will receive higher fines for using alcohol or drugs while driving, for not wearing seat belts, or for improper use of child seats. In the Netherlands, stricter rules already apply to novice drivers who have had their license for less than five years.
It will also become standard throughout the EU that 17-year-olds can obtain a driver’s license, but until they turn 18, they may only drive under the supervision of an experienced driver.
Furthermore, it will become possible to ban a foreign EU citizen who commits a serious traffic offense in one member state from driving throughout the entire EU. This includes offenses such as driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, speeding violations, or accidents resulting in deaths or injuries.
The new rules are part of a traffic safety package from the European Commission. Countries have three years to implement the rules into national legislation. After that, countries also have one more year to actually apply the rules.