EU rolls out digital driving licences and tighter probation rules

The European Union is introducing a suite of reforms for driver licensing. Licences will be issued electronically and stored in the European Digital Identity Wallet, with full legal validity across all member states; traditional plastic cards will remain available on request. Young people aged 17 will be allowed to obtain a category B licence but must be accompanied by an experienced driver until they turn 18. All new drivers will face a minimum 24‑month probation period during which tolerance for offences – especially driving under the influence, seat‑belt violations and improper child‑seat use – will be very low. Theory and practical exams will be updated to test knowledge of modern driver‑assist and autonomous vehicle functions. A licence suspended in one member state will be recognised as suspended throughout the EU.

Romania is preparing national legislation to implement the EU directive. The Romanian Ministry of Health is revising medical fitness criteria for licence issuance and renewal, tightening vision standards, introducing stricter assessments for severe mental‑health conditions, and setting new requirements for applicants with a history of alcohol or drug dependence. Medical reports and periodic monitoring will be required for those affected. These measures aim to enhance road safety in line with the EU reforms.