trans.info — 2025-12-02
Land transportation
The European Parliament has ultimately decided that younger candidates for truck-driving roles will have to wait. The minimum age for obtaining a category C driving licence will remain 18, despite earlier announcements suggesting that 17-year-olds might be allowed to enter the profession.
The new EU law clears up uncertainty and sets a direction aimed primarily at improving road safety. The European Parliament’s decision means that 17-year-olds will not be permitted to drive trucks, even under the supervision of an experienced driver. Contrary to the original proposal from EU regulators, the opportunity to apply for a category C driving licence will only begin at age 18.
Likewise, the lower age limit for category D has been set at 20, provided the candidate holds a Certificate of Professional Competence; without it, the minimum age rises to 21 and 24 respectively.
The transport market had hoped for a different outcome. The industry has been struggling with a driver shortage for years, and the proposal to allow younger candidates into the profession was widely discussed.
The idea of lowering the minimum age for a category C licence was a response to market demand. In Poland, the vacancy rate in the transport, shipping, and logistics sector is 44% higher than the average for the overall economy. Allowing young drivers into the profession could have eased recruitment pressures for companies. However, there is another side to the story – ensuring road safety. As a result, the original assumptions of the EU road-transport reform were likely revised. “The first two years behind the wheel will come with more restrictive rules and penalties for driving under the influence, and for failing to use seat belts or child restraint systems,” explains Mateusz Włoch, development and training expert at the Eurowag Group.
Digital driving licence – a step towards modernity
The most visible novelty will be the introduction of the digital driving licence, set to become the primary format across the European Union by 2030. Drivers will be able to display the document on their phone screens during roadside checks. The traditional plastic card will not disappear entirely – it will still be available on request, with delivery expected within three weeks of application.
One offence, one consequence – throughout the Union
The new rules will also harmonise penalties for drivers. A driving ban issued in any member state will apply across the entire European Union.
This change will close a legal loophole that currently allows drivers banned in one country to avoid consequences elsewhere due to the lack of cross-border information exchange.
“Responsibility will therefore no longer be limited to the local level,” adds Mateusz Włoch from the Eurowag Group.
The automatic information-exchange system will cover the most serious offences, including fatal accidents, major speeding violations, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Harder exams, greater emphasis on safety
Changes will also affect the qualification process. Driving tests will be expanded to include issues relating to blind spots, driver-assistance systems, the risks of mobile-phone use while driving, and safe door-opening procedures. Legislators have placed greater emphasis on the safety of pedestrians, children, cyclists, and other unprotected road users.
Adjustments will also apply to the validity periods of driving documents. Mateusz Włoch explains:
“For cars and motorcycles, the document will be valid for 15 years – or 10 years if the driving licence also serves as an ID card. For truck and bus drivers, the validity period will be five years but may be shortened for people aged 65 or over. The change is intended to ensure more frequent medical examinations and refresher training.”
Medical checks will include eyesight and cardiovascular assessments. Member states will be able to introduce alternative solutions, such as self-assessment forms, for car and motorcycle drivers.
New regulations – when will they come into effect?
The package of regulations will enter into force 20 days after publication in the Official Journal, and member states will have three years to adjust their national legislation. An additional year has been granted for preparing systems for full implementation.
Although the market hoped to open the truck-driver profession to younger candidates, EU decision-makers have opted for safety. And while this may increase staffing challenges in the transport and logistics sector in the short term, in the longer term the new rules aim to reduce accidents and strengthen responsibility behind the wheel across the entire European Union.