Revision of the Driving Licence Directive

Briefing 22-10-2024

On 1 March 2023, the European Commission published its legislative proposal on driving licences – a matter of EU competence – to facilitate the free movement of persons and goods throughout the EU by modernising the driving licence system. This involves future-proofing the driving licence rules, improving road safety and simplifying the rules for those wanting to get a driving licence. The proposal provides for accompanied driving for young learners, zero tolerance for drink-driving, better preparation for micro-mobility, and the introduction of digital driving licences. In the European Parliament, the legislative file was assigned to the Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) (rapporteur: Jutta Paulus, Greens/EFA, Germany). The TRAN committee report was adopted on 7 December 2023. On 28 February 2024, Parliament voted in plenary on its first reading position on the file. On 7 October, the TRAN committee voted to start trilogue negotiations. Fourth edition, the first was drafted by Karin Smit Jacobs. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the legislative procedure.