The EU will allow driving with a companion from the age of 17.

BrusselsThe European Union agreed this Tuesday to create a homologable digital driving license in all Member States and various measures aimed at reducing the number of accidents. One of the main regulatory changes is that citizens aged 17 and over can now drive a vehicle if accompanied by an adult who already has a license. Thus, with the aim of promoting road safety, the European bloc wants novice drivers to have prior experience behind the wheel before starting to drive a car, van, or even a truck alone.

In addition, all Member States will have to train aspiring drivers in aspects such as mobile phone use while driving, the dangers of blind spots, and driving in adverse weather conditions, such as snow, rain, and ice. Along the same lines, for the first time, a probationary period of at least two years will be established for drivers who have just passed their driving test, who will be subject to stricter controls and sanctions if they drive under the influence. the effects of alcohol or drugs, or if they don't wear their seatbelt.

These measures are primarily aimed at reducing the number of accidents involving novice drivers and those under 30. Although this population group only represents 8% of all Europeans with a license,are involved in two out of every five accidents, according to data from the European Commission itself. In total, almost 20,000 fatal accidents were recorded in the European Union as a whole in 2024.

Once the directive has been registered in the EU's Official Journal, EU countries will have a maximum of five years to transpose it into their legislation. Although it was agreed upon this Tuesday by the EU Council—the EU body representing the Member States—and the European Parliament, it must still be officially ratified in the coming days, and some details could be added at the last minute.

Coordination to enforce fines

Furthermore, the objective of implementing a digital driving licence is to facilitate the exchange of information between Member States and enhance the interstate prosecution of those sanctioned. According to data from the European Commission, around 40% of fines imposed on citizens not resident in the Member State where they committed the offence went unpunished because the driver could not be identified or failed to pay the fine. The new system would also make it difficult for drivers whose licence has been revoked in one Member State to drive in another without any problems.