MOTORISTS are facing a huge change for driving in the EU, with an overhaul of road safety rules set to be introduced.
The reform is part of the bloc’s Vision Zero project, which aims for zero deaths on its roads by 2050.
GettyThe EU is planning to introduce centrally registered, digital driving licences[/caption]
Under new proposals from the European Commission, a digital driving licence will be introduced to crack down on rogue drivers.
This will create a central database of registered drivers across the EU.
It would mean that motorists who commit traffic offences in a member state won’t be able to flee the country to escape justice.
Likewise, driving bans will be enforced across borders, rather than just within the nation where they are issued.
EU bosses have also approved plans to create new driving offences, including dangerous parking and having a car that’s too heavy.
A spokesperson for the European Commission said: “Current EU rules on cross-border enforcement have helped to ensure that non-resident road offenders do not remain anonymous.
“Nonetheless, in 2019 some 40% of cross-border offences were committed with impunity, either because the offender was not identified or because the payment was not enforced.
“To prevent impunity among road traffic offenders, a new system will be put in place, allowing for an EU-wide driving disqualification when a Member State decides to disqualify a driver because of an offence committed on its territory.
“The new centralised database for all EU driving licences will streamline potential prosecutions.”
They added that the digital licence will make it easier for citizens to replace or renew their registration, as well as easing the process of non-EU nationals to exchange their licence for an EU one.
Other road safety plans include a two-year probation period for new drivers and a zero-tolerance rule on drink-driving.
The Commission also plans to lower the age limit for learning to drive from 18 to 17.