On October 21, the European Parliament approved a directive that significantly reforms the process of obtaining and using driving licenses across all EU member states, including Spain. The goal is to reduce road fatalities, which claimed nearly 20,000 lives in 2024.
1️⃣ Digital Driving License
The key innovation will be the introduction of a digital driving license, available on smartphones. It will gradually become the main format, although drivers will still be able to request the traditional plastic card. The standard validity period will be 15 years for car and motorcycle licenses, and 5 years for truck and bus licenses.
2️⃣ Stricter Rules for New Drivers
New drivers will face a mandatory probation period of at least two years with tough penalties for violations (for example, driving under the influence). In addition, 17-year-olds will be allowed to obtain a category B license, but until they turn 18, they may drive only under the supervision of an experienced driver.
3️⃣ Updated Exams and Medical Checks
Driving tests will now include questions on blind spots, driver-assistance systems, and risks of distraction due to mobile phone use. Special emphasis will be placed on the safety of pedestrians and cyclists. When obtaining or renewing a license, drivers will undergo a mandatory medical examination (vision, cardiovascular health). Spanish authorities will also be allowed to reduce the validity period of licenses for drivers over 65, to enable more frequent medical checks.
4️⃣ Cross-Border Enforcement
The directive also strengthens cross-border enforcement of penalties. Decisions to revoke a license for serious offenses (alcohol, drugs, dangerous speeding) made in one EU country will now be valid throughout the entire Union. Spain and other member states will have three years to adapt their national legislation to the new rules.
1️⃣ Digital Driving License
The key innovation will be the introduction of a digital driving license, available on smartphones. It will gradually become the main format, although drivers will still be able to request the traditional plastic card. The standard validity period will be 15 years for car and motorcycle licenses, and 5 years for truck and bus licenses.
2️⃣ Stricter Rules for New Drivers
New drivers will face a mandatory probation period of at least two years with tough penalties for violations (for example, driving under the influence). In addition, 17-year-olds will be allowed to obtain a category B license, but until they turn 18, they may drive only under the supervision of an experienced driver.
3️⃣ Updated Exams and Medical Checks
Driving tests will now include questions on blind spots, driver-assistance systems, and risks of distraction due to mobile phone use. Special emphasis will be placed on the safety of pedestrians and cyclists. When obtaining or renewing a license, drivers will undergo a mandatory medical examination (vision, cardiovascular health). Spanish authorities will also be allowed to reduce the validity period of licenses for drivers over 65, to enable more frequent medical checks.
4️⃣ Cross-Border Enforcement
The directive also strengthens cross-border enforcement of penalties. Decisions to revoke a license for serious offenses (alcohol, drugs, dangerous speeding) made in one EU country will now be valid throughout the entire Union. Spain and other member states will have three years to adapt their national legislation to the new rules.
