Driver's license renewal deadlines set for Germany and Austria

Drivers in Germany and Austria are facing upcoming deadlines to exchange older driver's licenses for new, tamper-proof EU card formats.

In Germany, holders of card licenses issued between 2002 and 2004 must exchange them by January 19, 2027. An exception applies to individuals born before 1953, who have until January 19, 2033. Failure to comply may result in fines. This process is primarily administrative and typically does not require new medical examinations.

In Austria, card licenses issued since January 19, 2013, have an administrative validity of 15 years, after which the physical document must be renewed. While the expiration of the document does not automatically revoke the legal right to drive for classes AM, A1, A2, A, B, and BE, drivers are advised to renew them promptly. Older paper or card licenses must be exchanged by January 19, 2033. Stricter rules apply to professional categories, such as truck and bus drivers (classes C/C1 and D/D1), which require renewal every five years accompanied by a medical certificate.