European Parliament votes on new rules for driving licenses

This Wednesday, MEPs voted in favor of allowing drivers to obtain a digital driving license. However, they rejected the text concerning the compulsory medical examination to maintain a driving license. The European Parliament rejected the text with 270 votes for and 323 against.

This measure was notably defended by MEP Karima Delli (The Greens). This involved imposing a test of “sight, hearing and reflexes” every fifteen years from the date of obtaining a driving license. This interval would have been reduced to five years for drivers over 70 years old.

The rejection of this proposed text now gives the Member States of the European Union the choice of whether to introduce it or not. Other European countries such as Portugal or Italy have already adopted systems of this type.

To support the EU’s single market, MEPs support the introduction of a digital driving license, which would be available on a mobile phone and have the same value as a traditional driving license.

Safer roads

MEPs want drivers to be better prepared for real-world driving situations and be aware of the risks, particularly for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, children, cyclists and e-scooter users.

Therefore, driving in difficult climatic situations, safe use of the phone while driving, blind spots, driver assistance systems and opening vehicle doors safely should also be part of the safety exams. driving to obtain a license.

Novice drivers are expected to be subject to a two-year probationary period during which they will be subject to strict alcohol limits and face tougher penalties for dangerous driving.

To alleviate the shortage of professional drivers, MEPs also decided to authorize young people aged 18 to obtain a driving license for a truck or bus capable of carrying up to 16 passengers, provided that they hold a certificate of professional aptitude.

Young people aged 17 should also be able to obtain a driving license for cars or trucks, provided they are accompanied by an experienced driver.