EU Introduces Two-Year Probationary Period With Tougher Rules For New Drivers

For the first time, the European Union will introduce a set of rules establishing a mandatory probationary period of at least two years for all inexperienced drivers.

During this period, novice drivers will be subject to stricter penalties for key road safety offences, including driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to use seat belts, and non-compliance with child-restraint requirements.The aim is to instil safer driving habits early and reduce accidents among new licence holders.

Under the new framework, 17-year-olds will also be eligible to obtain driving licence (category B).

However, until they reach the age of 18, they will be required to drive only when accompanied by an experienced driver, ensuring a supervised and safer introduction to independent driving.

To help address the shortage of professional drivers, the revised rules will also lower the minimum age thresholds for certain professional driving licences.

Young people aged 18 will be able to apply for a licence to drive trucks (category C), and those who are aged 21 will be eligible for a category D bus licence, provided they have completed the necessary Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) training.

In the absence of this qualification, the current age limits of 21 and 24 years respectively will continue to apply.

The new directive will enter into force 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Member States will then have three years to transpose the new provisions into their national legislation, followed by an additional year to prepare for full implementation.

#MaltaDaily