Green light from TRAN on EU driving licence and driving disqualification rules
On Monday, Transport and Tourism Committee backed a review of EU driving licence rules introducing provisions on digital licence, novice drivers and driving disqualification.
Under the provisional agreement, negotiated by Council and Parliament negotiators, led by EP rapporteur Jutta Paulus (Greens, DE), in March 2025 and confirmed by Council in September 2025, a digital driving licence, available on a smartphone with EU-wide digital wallet technology, will become the main format in the EU. MEPs managed to ensure that drivers will continue to have the right to request a physical driver’s licence.
Updated EU rules will set a probationary period of at least two years for new drivers, who will, thanks to MEP, 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. In addition, before they are issued with first licence or apply for its renewal, 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 other alternative measures, the text adds.
For more details on the review of EU driving licence rules you can consult the press release on the outcome of the negotiations between EP and Council.
Driving disqualification
Under another deal between Council and Parliament negotiators, led by EP rapporteur Matteo Ricci (S&D, IT), which was concluded in March 2025 and confirmed by Council in September 2025, 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.
For more details on the review of EU driving licence rules you can consult the press release on the outcome of the negotiations between EP and Council.
Next steps
The provisional agreement on EU driving licence rules was approved by Transport and Tourism Committee by 29 votes to seven, while the deal on EU-wide driving disqualification provisions was approved by 31 vote to five. It now needs to be approved by the full House, scheduled to convene in October.
Contacts:
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Gediminas VILKAS
Press Officer (LT)