Croatia to introduce digital driver’s licences and stricter rules for young and professional motorists

Croatia is preparing a major overhaul of its driver‑licence system that will roll out digital licences stored in a smartphone app between 2026 and 2027, while keeping the traditional plastic card available for those who prefer it. The reforms, derived from an EU directive, set the validity of private‑car and motorcycle licences at 15 years and require professional licences to be renewed every five years with a mandatory medical exam.

A mandatory two‑year probation period will apply to new drivers, enforcing zero alcohol tolerance and harsher penalties for offences such as mobile‑phone use while driving, with fines potentially reaching €300. Drivers may take the practical test from age 17 under supervision, and older drivers (over 65) will face more frequent health checks. The legislation also introduces EU‑wide recognition of driving bans and lowers the minimum age for operating trucks to 18 and buses to 21 to address driver shortages.