Germany and Austria implement mandatory driver's license exchanges

Drivers in Germany and Austria are facing mandatory deadlines to exchange old driving licenses for the new EU card format.

In Germany, specifically noted in the Pfaffenhofen district, licenses issued between 2002 and 2004 must be exchanged by January 19, 2027. Authorities recommend early application to avoid long processing times caused by high demand near deadlines. All licenses issued before January 19, 2013, must be phased out by January 19, 2033.

In Austria, approximately 102,800 people in Lower Austria still use the old pink paper licenses. These documents must be replaced by January 19, 2033, at the latest. Drivers can complete the exchange through various authorities, including district commissions or municipal offices, and are encouraged to book appointments online.