New EU driving license rules

New EU driving license rules approved in late 2025 and taking effect around 2026–2029 will introduce digital, mobile-based licenses, a mandatory two-year probationary period for novice drivers, and stricter rules for over-65s. Key changes include cross-border enforcement of disqualifications, 17-year-olds driving with supervision, and potential medical checks for renewals. 

Key Changes to EU Driving Licenses (Starting 2026 onwards)

Digital Driving Licence: A digital license will be available via a mobile app in an "EU Digital Identity Wallet," making it easier to renew or exchange licenses between member states. Physical licenses will still exist.

Probationary Period: All new drivers will face a minimum two-year probationary period with stricter sanctions for traffic offenses, particularly drinking and driving.

Young Drivers: 17-year-olds can obtain a license but must be accompanied by an experienced driver until they turn 18.

Validity & Health Checks: The maximum validity for car/motorcycle licenses will be 15 years. Member states may require more frequent medical checks for drivers over 65.

Cross-Border Enforcement: A driver banned in one EU country will face that ban across the entire EU. Germany, for example, is enhancing digital, instant recording of offenses by foreign drivers.

Professional Drivers: Minimum age for truck (category C) and bus (category D) drivers is lowered to 18 and 21 respectively, provided they hold a certificate of professional competence (CPC).

Implementation Timeline: While agreements were reached in 2025, EU countries have until November 2028 to transpose these rules into national law, with full application expected by 2029. 

Impact on Non-EU License Holders

Non-EU License Usage: Residents with non-EU licenses (e.g., in the Netherlands) can generally only use their foreign license for a limited time (e.g., 185 days) before needing to exchange it or pass local tests.

Validity of Foreign Licenses: In countries like Germany, foreign licenses for categories such as C/D have a validity of only 5 years, requiring renewals to match local standards. 

Note: While many changes are termed "2026" in legislative updates, full implementation of all directives varies by country, with full EU compliance required by late 2029.