New Driving Licence Reform Allows 17-Year-Olds to Drive in Spain and the Canary Islands

The European Parliament has officially approved a significant reform in driving licence regulations that will enable individuals to obtain their car licence at the age of 17. This new provision mandates that these young drivers must be accompanied by an experienced driver until they reach the age of 18, thereby ensuring a level of safety and guidance during their initial driving experiences.

Key Changes in Driving Regulations

Currently in Spain, including the Canary Islands, the minimum age to obtain a driving licence for cars stands at 18 years. The measure, adopted in Strasbourg on Tuesday, is part of a broader EU initiative aimed at overhauling road safety across the continent. This reform is not just about lowering the age limit; it represents a comprehensive approach to modernising driving regulations in line with contemporary needs.

In addition to allowing 17-year-olds to drive, this reform introduces a digital European driving licence, which is expected to streamline the process of obtaining and managing driving credentials. Furthermore, it enables cross-border enforcement of driving bans for serious offences, such as drink-driving or causing fatal accidents, thereby enhancing accountability for drivers across EU member states.

Implementation Timeline and Requirements

Once the reform is published in the EU’s Official Journal, member states will have a period of three years to adapt these new rules into their national laws. Under the new directive, 17-year-olds will be eligible to apply for a Category B car licence, allowing them to drive under supervision until they turn 18. This gradual introduction to independent driving is designed to foster responsible driving habits from a young age.

Moreover, member states will have the option to lower the minimum age for lorry licences to 17 for national routes, again requiring supervision by an experienced driver. This flexibility aims to address the growing demand for professional drivers in various sectors, particularly in logistics and transportation, where there is a notable shortage.

Safety Measures and Digital Innovations

A critical aspect of this reform is the implementation of a two-year probation period for all new drivers. During this time, stricter penalties will be enforced for serious offences, including drink-driving, failing to wear a seatbelt, or not using child restraints. These measures are intended to improve road safety significantly and instill a sense of responsibility among new drivers, ensuring that they understand the potential consequences of reckless behaviour on the road.

Additionally, the reform lays the groundwork for a digital EU driving licence, which is expected to be fully operational by 2030. This digital licence will be recognised across all member states, facilitating easier travel and reducing bureaucratic hurdles for drivers. While the digital version will be the primary format, drivers will still have the option to request a physical card version, catering to those who prefer traditional documentation.

The new driving licence will be valid for 15 years for cars and motorcycles, with a reduced validity of 10 years in countries where it also serves as an identity document. This change reflects a modern approach to licensing, aligning with technological advancements and the increasing need for secure identification methods.

With these transformative changes, the EU aims to create a safer, fairer, and more connected driving system. By unifying standards across the continent, the reform seeks to prepare the next generation of motorists for a future where road safety is paramount, and driving regulations are consistent and transparent.

Key Points

• The European Parliament approved a reform allowing 17-year-olds to obtain a driving licence in Spain and the Canary Islands.
• Drivers aged 17 must be accompanied by an experienced driver until they turn 18.
• The reform includes a digital European driving licence and cross-border enforcement of driving bans.
• Member states have three years to implement the new rules into national law.
• A two-year probation period will apply to all new drivers with stricter penalties for serious offences.
• The new licence will be valid for 15 years for cars and motorcycles.
• The EU aims to improve road safety and address the shortage of professional drivers.