The EU has updated its rules on driver's licenses: what will change for drivers

The European Parliament has adopted important changes to the rules for obtaining and using driver's licenses in EU countries. The updates concern age requirements, document validity periods, and the transition to digital format. Learn more about how these new rules will affect drivers

Issuing a Green Card policy for traveling abroad by car

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The European Parliament has approved updated EU rules on driving licenses. They aim to improve road safety, harmonize requirements between member states, and introduce digital documents.

You can apply for a Green Card for travel to Europe online, without queuing, on the Visit Ukraine portal. The policy is valid for all EU countries and is required when crossing the border.

Key changes to EU rules on driving licenses

Probationary period for new drivers

The EU is introducing a mandatory probationary period for novice drivers:

The duration is at least two years. This is intended to improve discipline on the roads and reduce accidents among inexperienced drivers.

Category B license from the age of 17

Young drivers will be able to obtain a category B license from the age of 17. However, they will only be able to drive a car accompanied by an experienced driver until they reach the age of 18.

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Changes for professional drivers

Age for truck and bus drivers

The updated rules allow people to start their professional activities earlier:

18-year-olds can obtain a license for trucks.

21-year-olds can obtain a license for buses.

For both categories, a certificate of professional competence confirming completion of the relevant training is mandatory.

New validity periods for driving licenses in the EU

Validity period for passenger cars and motorcycles

Driver's licenses will be valid for 15 years.

Member states may reduce the period to 10 years at their discretion.

Validity period for trucks and buses

For professional categories, a validity period of 5 years is established, with mandatory renewal thereafter.

Digital driver's licenses in the EU

The EU is gradually transitioning to electronic documents. Digital licenses will become the primary format for drivers in EU countries.

Despite the shift to digital, drivers will have the right to request a physical document if they prefer a traditional card.

What do you need to know before travelling to Europe by car?

Many families continue to choose the car as the most predictable way to leave the country. To cross the European border, the driver must have:

▪️ valid car documents;

▪️ a driving licence;

▪️ registration documents;

▪️ Green Card insurance.

Without it, the car will not be allowed to drive on the roads of the European Union countries. You can apply for a Green Card online in 5 minutes on the Visit Ukraine portal.

Reminder! In most European countries, the penalty point system helps to reduce the number of accidents and make drivers more disciplined. Find out how penalty points work in France, Germany, Italy and Poland, which violations lead to the loss of driving privileges and how this affects insurance.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

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