Renewal of the driving license subject to a medical examination: what the text provides

Alexis de La Fléchère / Photo credit: MAGALI COHEN / HANS LUCAS / HANS LUCAS VIA AFP 6:19 a.m., February 28, 2024

Towards the end of the lifetime driving license?

This Wednesday, at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, MEPs must vote on the generalization of a medical examination every fifteen years to maintain a driving license.

A measure that has particularly caused a reaction in recent days.

But, concretely, what happens if the bill is adopted?

“Zero deaths” by 2050

All European citizens could potentially lose their right to drive if they are deemed unfit to be behind the wheel by the approved doctor.

Motorcyclists are also concerned and three major skills will be checked such as sight, hearing or even the person's cognitive reflexes.

If the text passes, the first medical examination is planned as soon as the license is obtained, at 18 years old so if you got it early, then every 15 years thereafter.

But be careful, from the age of 70, a new level is reached.

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At this stage, the measure is reinforced by a compulsory medical check-up every five years.

Brussels' objective is "zero deaths" on the roads by 2050. Finally, in addition to measures aimed at improving safety, the project provides for the introduction of a digital driving license, available on mobile phones.

MEPs will therefore vote on the text at first reading this Wednesday.

Note that it could then be significantly revised during negotiations with Member States before Parliament decides on its final version after the European elections in June.