European driving license format transitions

Several European nations are implementing transitions from paper-based driving licenses to modern polycarbonate or European-style plastic card formats. Under European legislation, all old paper licenses must be replaced by January 19, 2033.

In Croatia, driving with an expired or invalid document after the 2033 deadline will be treated as a violation equivalent to driving without a license. Validity periods vary by category, with amateur licenses lasting ten years and professional licenses lasting five.

In the Czech Republic, approximately 243,000 drivers are expected to face license expirations by the end of the year, particularly among those aged 61 and older. The Ministry of Transport has introduced a digital system via the Transport Portal that allows for free applications by automatically retrieving photos and signatures from state registers.

Greece has also mandated the transition to the new format. Mandatory replacements are required when a driver reaches age 65. For drivers aged 65 to 80, licenses must be renewed every three years, while those over 80 require more frequent renewals and medical examinations. The Greek process can be completed electronically through the gov.gr platform using Taxisnet credentials.